Health Ministry warns of Cholera risk following flooding

The Ministry of Health has cautioned that recent flooding across parts of the country could trigger a cholera outbreak if residents fail to observe proper sanitation and hygiene practices.

The Ministry said flood conditions create an ideal environment for the spread of waterborne diseases, particularly cholera, and urged the public to avoid activities that contaminate water sources.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Monday, June 29, 2026, the Ministry's spokesperson, Tony Goodman, said public education on cholera prevention had begun even before the onset of the rains because of the heightened risk associated with the rainy season.

“You know, even before the rain started, we had begun giving this information out, letting the people know that when we are flat, what follows is cholera,” he said.

Mr. Goodman expressed concern over the continued practice of dumping refuse into drains and water bodies during periods of flooding, describing it as a major contributor to disease outbreaks.

“We need to stop throwing garbage into our water bodies. But whenever there is a flood, that is when people think they can empty their dustbins and the rest,” he added.

He disclosed that the Ghana Health Service has activated its disease surveillance system by alerting health authorities across the districts to monitor and promptly report suspected cholera cases.

According to him, cholera preparedness forms an integral part of the country's public health response during the rainy season because of the disease's recurring nature.

“We prepare for it. If it's a wet season, rainy season, we prepare for cholera. We are endemic,” he stated.

The Ministry said it is intensifying public education and surveillance efforts as persistent rains continue to cause flooding in several parts of the country, urging residents to maintain good hygiene, properly dispose of waste, and seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms associated with cholera.