Keta: The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has intensified public education on the signs, symptoms, and prevention of cholera in the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region as part of its GoodLife health promotion campaign. The initiative aims to raise awareness and prevent the spread of the disease, especially in flood-prone communities across the municipality.
According to Ghana News Agency, educational materials on cholera are being distributed under the theme, 'Cholera Signs and Symptoms.' Madam Dora Kugbonu, Public Health Promotion Officer at Keta, explained that cholera has a sudden onset, with symptoms typically appearing between 12 hours and five days after infection. Key symptoms include painless watery stool, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which may occur in infected individuals.
Madam Kugbonu highlighted that those infected could experience increased weakness and fatigue, noting that persistent diarrhea and vomiting could rapidly lead to severe dehydration if not treated promptly. She emphasized the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent complications and fatalities associated with cholera.
For prevention, Madam Kugbonu advised the public to wash their hands thoroughly with soap under running water before meals, before food preparation, and after using the toilet. She also recommended drinking only safe water, suggesting that water from uncertain sources should be boiled before consumption to prevent contamination.
Additionally, residents were encouraged to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with clean water before eating and to consume food while it is hot to minimize the risk of contamination. Madam Kugbonu advised those experiencing acute diarrhea to immediately begin taking Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) and Zinc tablets while seeking treatment at the nearest health facility.
The Ghana Health Service reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing public health education in communities vulnerable to flooding and poor sanitation. It appealed to residents to practice good hygiene and seek prompt medical attention to prevent potential cholera outbreaks. The Service also urged community members to maintain clean gutters, clear weeds around their homes, and eliminate stagnant water to improve environmental sanitation.