By Samira Larbie, GNA
Accra, June 30, GNA— The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has renewed its appeal to the public to strictly observe preventive health measures following the heavy flooding that has affected parts of the Greater Accra Region.
The reminder comes weeks after the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service issued a public health alert on the onset of the rainy season, warning of increased risks of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid fever, and dysentery.
The GHS said floodwaters could contaminate drinking water sources and food, creating conditions that allowed disease outbreaks to spread rapidly if preventive measures were ignored.
The Service, in a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency, is therefore urging residents, especially those in flood-affected communities, to drink only safe or treated water, maintain good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap under running water, and ensure that food is properly prepared and stored.
Food vendors have also been advised to maintain high standards of hygiene by thoroughly washing and cooking food, protecting meals from flies and dust, and using clean water in food preparation.
The GHS further cautioned the public against consuming food or water that may have come into contact with floodwater and encouraged communities to clear choked drains, eliminate stagnant water, and properly dispose of waste to reduce public health risks.
People experiencing symptoms such as severe diarrhoea, vomiting, fever or dehydration have been advised to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility instead of self-medicating.
The Ghana Health Service reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of all Ghanaians throughout the rainy season and called on the public to work together to prevent outbreaks of cholera and other waterborne diseases.
The Service stressed that protecting public health was a shared responsibility and urged everyone to continue observing the precautionary measures outlined in its earlier public health advisory as the rains continued.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe