GHS Intensifies Cholera Vaccination as It Claims 40 Lives

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has ramped up vaccination and sensitization efforts as a cholera outbreak continues to spread, claiming 40 lives and infecting over 6,000 people nationwide. The outbreak, which originated in Ada East, Greater Accra in October 2024, has since spread to coastal areas and parts of the Eastern and Ashanti regions.¹

According to Dr. Kwame Amponsa-Achiano, Head of Prevention and Control at the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), many victims died before reaching medical facilities. “Many of the victims died before they could get to the hospital. They were waiting, thinking the diarrhea would stop on its own,” he explained.

Dr. Amponsa-Achiano outlined the outbreak’s progression, stating that cases were first recorded in Ada East in October, before spreading to Ada West and later to other areas of Greater Accra. As the epicenter shifted, the GHS intervened with vaccination campaigns. “When the epicenter moved from Ada East to Ada West, we had to step in and intervene. That’s when we launched the vaccination program,” he added.

The situation worsened over the Christmas period, with a significant increase in cases in the Western Region, particularly in Shama District and Takoradi. Dr. Amponsa-Achiano noted that the confirmed number of cases has surpassed 6,000, with over 40 deaths reported.

The GHS has emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of cholera, particularly water and sanitation issues. “We are collaborating with local assemblies to enforce sanitation laws and ensure access to clean water. The vaccine is just one tool in our response,” Dr. Amponsa-Achiano explained.

Vaccination efforts have been strengthened, particularly in endemic areas like Awutu Senya East in the Central Region. “Vaccination is a vital tool, but we must also focus on addressing the underlying causes of the outbreak. We’ve already begun vaccination efforts in Awutu Senya East,” Dr. Amponsa-Achiano concluded.