The Ministry of Health has intensified its public health response following the recent floods that affected parts of Accra, with Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh leading field assessments in some of the hardest-hit communities to prevent possible disease outbreaks.
The Minister visited flood-affected areas including Circle VIP, Neoplan Station and the Achimota-Aloboshie community to assess conditions on the ground, facilitate the rapid deployment of emergency health interventions and ensure swift action to protect affected residents.
As part of the government’s response, the Minister has directed the Ghana Health Service to intensify disease surveillance, strengthen community-level interventions and scale up public education on disease prevention in all affected districts.
Health workers have also been tasked to deepen public awareness on preventive health practices, with support from the media, traditional and religious leaders, as well as educational institutions, to reduce the risk of waterborne and communicable diseases.
To enhance coordination, the Ministry has convened a multi-agency engagement involving the Ghana Health Service, the National Ambulance Service, faith-based health service delivery agencies, the National Health Insurance Authority and the Ministry of Local Government to address critical Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) challenges resulting from the floods.
The Ministry has also called on all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to work closely with health authorities to enforce environmental sanitation measures and reduce public health risks in affected communities.
Food vendors have been directed to adhere strictly to food hygiene standards to prevent foodborne illnesses, while residents have been urged to clear blocked drains, eliminate stagnant water and maintain clean surroundings.
The Ministry further cautioned the public to remain vigilant, noting that floodwaters may displace reptiles and other dangerous animals into residential areas.
Reassuring the public, the Ministry said the situation remains under control and that all necessary measures are being implemented to safeguard public health while ensuring uninterrupted healthcare service delivery.
It also encouraged all Ghanaians to practice good hygiene by drinking safe water, washing hands regularly with soap and water, consuming well-cooked food and seeking immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if they experience symptoms of illness.
The Ministry urged the public to rely only on verified information from official sources as authorities continue to monitor the situation and implement measures to protect lives and prevent disease outbreaks in the aftermath of the floods.
By: Daniel Orlando/newsalertgh.com
