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The Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS) has called for urgent public health interventions to curb the spread of cholera and prevent further casualties.
The Association in a statement, on Tuesday night, confirmed that 69 cases had been reported in the Central Region, with two deaths between February 6 and 8, 2025. The Effutu District has been identified as the epicentre, recording 38 cases and both fatalities. Other affected areas include Agona West, Gomoa Central, Cape Coast, and Komenda Edina Eguafo Abirem.
The statement was signed by Dr Gloria Amegatcher, Public Relations Officer of GAMLS. The Association urged the public to take precautionary measures, including drinking boiled or chlorinated water, washing hands with soap, and using proper sanitation facilities. It also advised people to eat thoroughly cooked food, avoid untreated water sources, and seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms, such as severe diarrhoea, vomiting, or dehydration.
“Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) can save lives if administered early,” the statement said. GAMLS emphasised the critical role of medical laboratories in controlling the outbreak, stating that timely and accurate diagnosis was key to effective case management.
“Medical laboratory scientists are conducting stool cultures and rapid tests to identify Vibrio cholerae, determining antibiotic sensitivity, and monitoring outbreak trends to guide public health interventions,” the statement noted. The Association, however, called for increased resources to support laboratory testing, including test kits, reagents, and personal protective equipment.
To combat the outbreak, GAMLS has called on government and health authorities to strengthen laboratory capacity, expand cholera vaccination campaigns to the Central Region, and intensify public education on hygiene and sanitation.
Healthcare workers were urged to report suspected cases promptly, while the public were advised to adhere to hygiene protocols and participate in community sensitisation programmes.
“Cholera can kill within hours if untreated. Early detection and treatment are critical to saving lives,” the statement added.The Association also stressed long-term investments in water and sanitation infrastructure to prevent future outbreaks.
GNA
