The Ghana National Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has called on the Ghanaian public to remain highly alert to prevent disease outbreaks following the heavy rains witnessed this week.
The GRNMA first extended its deepest condolences to the families who lost relatives during the torrential rains on Monday, 29 June 2026.
The association also expressed its sympathies to those who lost their properties and livelihoods to the devastating floods.
National Public Relations Officer Joseph Krampah warned that the post-flood environment could trigger outbreaks of cholera, typhoid, and other infectious diseases due to contaminated floodwaters, food, and medicine.
He advised the Ghanaian public to adhere strictly to the health alert issued by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to stay safe.
The GHS had previously issued an alert indicating that prolonged dry spells followed by early rains often lead to a rise in waterborne diseases such as typhoid and dysentery.
The health service explained that heavy rainfall can wash faecal matter into water sources, thereby contaminating the water used by communities.
It also cautioned that vegetables cultivated with contaminated water pose severe health risks. Furthermore, stagnant water collected in discarded tyres, cans, and other containers can provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes, significantly increasing the risk of malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever.
Mr Krampah speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM stressed that the public must religiously follow these guidelines to prevent any form of outbreak.
“We must follow these guidelines because the aftermath of the rains could trigger an outbreak and create a serious public health concern,” Mr Krampah said. “What happened is unprecedented, but we now have to deal with the aftermath. We have contaminated food and water, and we must take caution.”
To mitigate these risks, he advised the public to keep their surroundings clean by removing items that collect water and clearing overgrown bushes around their homes. Food must be thoroughly cooked before consumption.
Members of the public are also urged to wash fruits and vegetables properly with clean water and salt or vinegar, purchase food only from hygienic and reputable vendors, wash hands regularly with soap under running water—especially before handling food—and report to the nearest health facility immediately if any symptoms of illness develop.
Mr Krampah concluded by emphasising the need for robust systems to prevent health facilities from becoming overwhelmed.
He assured the public that health professionals remain fully committed to providing essential care, but noted that a collective approach is vital to ensure the country does not face a widespread surge in disease outbreaks.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
