AJUMAKO-ENYAN-ESSIAM DISTRICT ASSEMBLY TAKES ACTION TO CURB CHOLERA OUTBREAK.

AJUMAKO-ENYAN-ESSIAM DISTRICT ASSEMBLY TAKES ACTION TO CURB CHOLERA OUTBREAK.

In response to a rising cholera outbreak across the Central Region, the Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam District Assembly convened an emergency Health Committee meeting on Friday, November 22, 2024. The meeting, chaired by the District Chief Executive (DCE), focused on assessing the situation and implementing urgent measures to protect residents.

During the session, Mr. Damanyi Biwalli, the District Disease Control Officer, provided a briefing on the outbreak. He confirmed that the first case in the district was linked to Awutu Senya East, and sadly, one suspected case in Ajumako resulted in a fatality before diagnosis. With over 1,000 cases recorded region-wide, he stressed the need for swift action. He outlined cholera symptoms, the importance of early treatment, and the challenges posed by public apathy.

To combat the spread, the District Assembly launched several key interventions. Schools were directed to halt external food vending and prioritize hygiene training for school cooks. School heads were also tasked with integrating cholera education into classroom activities. Additionally, the Information Services Department (ISD) was assigned to educate food vendors and conduct public sensitization through community engagements and radio broadcasts.

Environmental health measures were also prioritized. The committee recommended relocating refuse dumps near schools, organizing district-wide cleaning exercises, and providing Veronica Buckets for effective handwashing. Plans were made to assess school hygiene conditions, with Zoomlion expected to support fumigation efforts.

The District Health Directorate was charged with intensifying surveillance and monitoring, while collaborative efforts between the Environmental Health and Sanitation Unit and school authorities would ensure compliance with hygiene protocols.

The DCE commended the committee’s commitment and assured residents that all necessary measures would be implemented to curb the outbreak. As part of the awareness campaign, he had already engaged the public through a radio interview, emphasizing the importance of preventive practices.

The Assembly urges all residents to prioritize hygiene, report symptoms promptly, and cooperate with health authorities as the district works tirelessly to safeguard public health.

Story: Dominic Seth Etuah

MIS Officer