By Lawrencia Akoto Frempong
Accra, July 17, GNA – The Ghana Environmental Health Practitioners Association (GEHPA) has called for urgent public health interventions to prevent disease outbreaks following the recent flooding incidents that affected parts of the country.
The association expressed concern over the loss of lives, destruction of prop erty, and disruption of livelihoods caused by the floods, while extending its sympathies to affected families and communities.
In a statement, GEHPA said although the physical destruction caused by floods was immediately visible, the associated public health risks could have far-reaching consequences if not addressed promptly.
It said flooding often results in the overflow of septic tanks and sewage systems, contamination of surface water bodies with human waste and refuse, illegal discharge of effluent into drains and watercourses, and damage to water supply infrastructure.
The association noted that contamination of shallow wells and other water sources could expose communities to waterborne diseases, including cholera, typhoid fever, diarrhoea, dysentery and hepatitis.
It said stagnant floodwaters also provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of malaria and other vector-borne diseases, while displaced persons often face challenges in accessing safe drinking water, sanitation facilities and essential hygiene services.
GEHPA urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), in collaboration with other government agencies, to intensify environmental health interventions to minimise the public health impact of the floods.
It also advised residents in affected communities to avoid drinking water from potentially contaminated sources unless it had been properly treated, boiled or filtered.
The association appealed to the public to refrain from dumping refuse into drains and water bodies and to promptly report overflowing septic tanks, illegal discharge of effluent and damaged Ghana Water Limited pipelines to the appropriate authorities.
It further encouraged residents to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks.
GEHPA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting affected communities and collaborating with stakeholders to safeguard public health during the recovery period.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Audrey Dekalu
Reporter: Lawrencia Akoto Frempong