The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has provided an update on the ongoing cholera outbreak, which began in October 2024 in Ada West, Greater Accra Region.
Addressing Parliament on February 18, 2025, he revealed that the outbreak has since spread to four additional regions—Central, Western, Ashanti, and Eastern—resulting in 6,145 recorded cases, 719 confirmed cases, and 49 deaths.
“Mr. Speaker, I must put on record that the current cholera outbreak began over five months ago,” Akandoh stated.
Despite the alarming statistics, Akandoh noted that the situation is improving, with active cases now largely concentrated in the Central Region.
“This region has been particularly affected by the outbreak, with a significant number of cases in Agona West and Effutu. In the past week alone, these two districts reported 133 cases, 23 admissions, and two deaths,” he explained.
However, he highlighted a positive trend, stating, “New cholera cases are decreasing, and the districts initially hardest-hit are now showing a decline in cases.”
Akandoh credited the decline to a robust government response, including heightened surveillance, improved laboratory capacity, environmental assessments, and the establishment of cholera treatment centers.
“We have also launched public awareness campaigns and strategically deployed oral cholera vaccines in high-risk areas,” he added.
As of February 16, the Central Region had 28 active cases: 18 in Effutu, six in Cape Coast, and four in Agona West.
The Minister praised the tireless efforts of healthcare workers, stating that their dedication has been instrumental in controlling the outbreak.