Climate Change poses significant threat to public health in Ghana

A new report released by World Bank in April 2024 highlights the devastating impacts of climate change on public health in Ghana, rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events are leading to, Increased spread of water-borne diseases like typhoid fever, Rising cases of heat-related illnesses and mortality, Growing burden of vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever, and infectious diseases are on the rise with the elderly, youth, and children being particularly vulnerable.

The report, titled Climate and Health Vulnerability Assessment (CHVA) for Ghana, identifies gaps and risks to the country’s health sector, while recommending policy actions and providing valuable insights into capacity to adapt to climate related shocks and calls for urgent action to strengthen the resilience of Ghana’s health system against the adverse effects of climate change

Climate change is a major public health concern in Ghana, and we must take immediate action to protect our citizens. The health impacts of climate change are far-reaching and devastating, and it's essential we develop and implement effective strategies to mitigate them

We urge the government to: Develop and implement climate-resilient healthcare systems including early warning systems and emergency preparedness plans.

Enhance surveillance and monitoring of climate-sensitive diseases, Invest in public awareness and education campaigns, Support research on climate and health in Ghana, including the development of new technologies and strategies to address the health impacts of climate change.Upgrading health facilities with climate-smart codes and ensuring consistent availability of drugs and equipment for climate-sensitive infectious diseases.

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Emmanuel Gameli Dovia
Executive Director
+233(0) 242023440
Institute of Climate,
Coastal and Environmental Protection (ICCEP GHANA)