The Ministry of Health has issued a public health alert urging residents in flood-affected communities, to observe strict hygiene practices to prevent outbreaks of waterborne and other flood-related diseases.
The advisory follows the heavy rainfall and flooding on June 29, which affected several communities, claimed lives and destroyed properties across parts of the Greater Accra, Central and Volta regions.
In a text message circulated to the public via sms, the Ministry advised residents to boil or treat drinking water and wash their hands regularly with clean water and soap.
“After the Accra floods, protect your family from disease. Boil or treat drinking water. Wash hands with soap and clean water often.”
The Ministry also cautioned residents and commuters against walking or travelling through floodwaters, warning that they could be swept away or exposed to contaminated water.
As part of measures to prevent diseases such as malaria and diarrhoea, the Ministry urged residents to clear stagnant water around their homes, sleep under insecticide-treated nets and seek early medical attention when they experience symptoms such as fever or diarrhoea.
It further advised persons suffering from diarrhoea to take Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) to prevent dehydration while seeking medical care.
“Don’t walk in floodwater. Clear standing water and sleep under an insecticide-treated net. Diarrhoea or fever? Take ORS and visit a clinic early,” the message stated.
The flooding, which followed hours of torrential rainfall from June 28 into June 29, left several communities and major roads inundated, with emergency agencies deployed to support affected residents.
The disaster has renewed concerns over sanitation practices, as blocked drains filled with plastic waste and other refuse contributed to the flooding in some areas.
The Ministry is therefore urging the public to remain vigilant, practise proper hygiene and take precautionary measures to protect themselves and their families from possible health threats after the floods.
