In response to recent cholera outbreaks, the Ghana Health Service (GHS), in collaboration with the Central Regional Coordinating Council, has initiated a comprehensive cholera vaccination campaign in the Effutu and Agona West districts of the Central Region. The campaign, which commenced on February 25, 2025, aims to curb the spread of cholera by vaccinating residents aged one and above. ​

The oral cholera vaccine, administered as a single dose, is provided free of charge to all eligible individuals. The vaccination teams, comprising over 450 trained personnel, are conducting house-to-house visits and setting up designated centres to ensure comprehensive coverage. These efforts are particularly focused on high-risk areas such as Winneba and Agona Swedru, which have reported significant numbers of cholera cases. ​ 

At the launch event in Winneba, Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Acting Director-General of the GHS, emphasized that vaccination alone is insufficient to prevent cholera outbreaks. He urged the public to maintain proper hygiene practices, including regular handwashing with soap and clean water, and to ensure their surroundings are kept clean. He also highlighted the importance of community participation in these efforts. ​ 

Honourable Ekow Payin Okeyere Aduamoah, Central Regional Minister, announced that the last Saturday of every month would be designated as a mandatory community clean-up day across all districts in the region. He stressed that cleanliness is a collective responsibility and urged all residents to participate actively in these exercises. ​

In a demonstration of confidence in the safety of the vaccine, both Professor Akoriyea and Honourable Aduamoah received their doses publicly during the launch event. This gesture aimed to encourage community members to take the vaccine without fear or hesitation. ​ 

The GHS has also distributed essential sanitation materials, including chlorine, Wellington boots, gloves, face masks, and disposable coveralls, to support the clean-up initiatives. Traditional leaders have expressed their support for the campaign, urging residents to actively participate in maintaining a clean environment to prevent further outbreaks. ​ 

The cholera vaccination campaign is part of a broader strategy to combat the disease, which has seen a resurgence in recent months. By combining vaccination efforts with improved sanitation and hygiene practices, the GHS aims to protect public health and prevent future outbreaks. ​

Residents in the affected districts are encouraged to take advantage of the vaccination services and to continue practicing good hygiene and sanitation habits to help eliminate cholera from their communities.

Credit: GBC