Professor Kofi Beyuo, Member of Parliament for Lambussie and Board Member of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, has assured Ghanaians that the nation’s health systems stand ready to manage any disease outbreaks following Monday’s torrential rains.
His reassurance follows an urgent public health alert issued by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) for the rainy season.
The GHS warned of an active cholera outbreak in parts of the Greater Accra Region, alongside severe risks of malaria, typhoid, and dysentery.
According to the health service, heavy rains cause rainwater to carry contaminated faecal matter into water sources, whilst vegetables cultivated near water bodies also face a high risk of contamination during this period.
Commenting on the alert, the lawmaker described the directive as a step in the right direction.
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he noted that the heavy rainfall has created extensive breeding grounds for mosquitoes, significantly increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever.
He warned that common breeding sites include stagnant water collected in discarded items like cans, old tyres, and various containers, underscoring the urgent need for the public to clear these areas to prevent an escalation.
Professor Beyuo advised the public, particularly food vendors, to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the GHS.
This includes sourcing ingredients from hygienic, approved suppliers, maintaining strict food safety practices during preparation and storage, separating raw items like fish from cooked foods, and thoroughly washing all fruits and vegetables with clean water and salt or vinegar.
He also urged consumers to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing food from locations that could compromise their health and safety.
When questioned on whether the country’s health facilities are genuinely equipped to handle a potential outbreak, the MP was categorical, stating that officials have prepared extensively for any eventualities.
“I can confidently assure Ghanaians that our health facilities stand prepared to manage any eventualities. I can also give you the confidence that our facilities stand ready. I know for a fact that the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has in place measures and guidelines that will help address any outbreaks, and so Ghanaians should be rest assured that we are ready. The only thing they have to do is that they should rush to any facility if they witness any signs and symptoms. They shouldn’t waste time.
We have stocked our facilities with drugs and other essentials that will help deal with any cases. Have no fears but trust in our systems to deliver.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
