Health minister blames cholera deaths on heavy rains

The Minister of Health, Joseph Yieleh Chiereh has blamed the recent cholera outbreak which has claimed 61 lives, on recent heavy downpours in the country.

Mr. Yieleh Chiereh told Adom News that the heavy rains have led to flooding which have contaminated many water bodies thereby spreading the disease especially in Accra.

The health minister also blamed the bad practice of dumping liquid human waste in water bodies saying it contributed to the spread of the epidemic.

The Minister was speaking in reaction to the increase in cholera cases which has recorded 61 deaths since January with 6,000 others hospitalized nationwide.

Mr. Yieleh Chireh said the Interior Ministry in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Organisation is tracking the cholera endemic areas in the country to provide the needed health support.

These challenges notwithstanding, the ministry is working with other organizations to intensify public education, he added.

He stressed that government has been working hard to provide health care to those affected by the outbreak.

He revealed plans to tour some of the affected communities to have firsthand information on the situation.

He said his outfit will embark on a comprehensive education and media outreach programme to educate people on the incidence of cholera, the mode of transmission and its prevention.


Story: Samuel Mantey/Adom News