The Ghana Health Service has issued a public health alert warning of increased risks of waterborne diseases, mosquito-borne illnesses, and reptile encounters as the rainy season sets in across the country.
In a public notice issued on May 29, the Service said following prolonged dry periods, the early rains often lead to an increase in waterborne diseases such as typhoid, cholera, and dysentery, as rainwater carries contaminated faecal matter into water sources. Vegetables cultivated near water bodies may also become contaminated during this period.
The rains also create breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever. Common breeding sites include stagnant water collected in discarded items such as cans, old tyres, and other containers.
The GHS also warned that flooding may force reptiles out of their natural habitats, increasing the risk of contact with humans. The public is advised to keep doors and windows closed where possible, raise belongings off the floor to minimise potential hiding places, and ensure surroundings are free from bushes and holes.
The Service urged the public to observe preventive measures including keeping surroundings clean, clearing bushes around homes, ensuring all foods are thoroughly cooked, washing fruits and vegetables properly with clean water and salt or vinegar, purchasing food only from hygienic sources, and washing hands regularly with soap under running water.
Food vendors were also advised to source food items from hygienic and approved suppliers, follow strict food safety practices, separate raw food items from cooked or ready-to-eat foods, and ensure food handling certificates are valid and up to date.
The public was further urged to report promptly to the nearest health facility if symptoms of illness occur. The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding public health and stressed that public cooperation is essential in preventing disease outbreaks during the rainy season.
