Akosombo dam spillage: 'We've detected bilharzia, malaria, skin diseases, respiratory conditions, diarrhea in emergency shelters' — GMA reveals

The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has raised an alarm over the health conditions of individuals seeking shelter in emergency accommodations following the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams.

Among the recorded health issues are diarrhea, bilharzia, malaria, skin diseases, and respiratory conditions, according to Dr. Richard Selormey, the Acting General Secretary of the GMA.

He made these revelations during an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM monitored by ModernGhana News.

Dr. Selormey explained that in reaction to the ongoing crisis, the GMA organized a team comprising twenty-two medical professionals, in collaboration with the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association and a clinical psychologist who volunteered from the 37 Military Hospital.

The team was dispatched to the affected areas to provide essential healthcare services to those residing in the emergency shelters.

During the interview, Dr. Selormey shared the team's findings. "We have noted that the most common issues among the affected individuals are cases of malaria, skin diseases, and respiratory conditions.

“This is primarily due to the overcrowding in the shelters, where many people are in close contact with each other.

“Additionally, we have observed a concerning number of individuals exhibiting signs of diarrhea diseases, and approximately two individuals are showing signs of bilharzia."

Dr. Selormey expressed worry over a potential outbreak of waterborne diseases and urged the affected people to strictly adhere to safety protocols while awaiting relief items.

He stated, “Our concern is the outbreak of diarrheal diseases. That can be a big problem because it can quickly spread."

“And then also because of the crowding, respiratory tract infections. So key is the protocols we highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic which has to do with handwashing practices and advising the people not to touch things and making sure that there is good water available,” Dr. Selormey added.