The Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC) has announced immediate measures to combat a severe cholera outbreak that has gripped the region, with alarming infection rates and fatalities.

As of December 7, 2024, the outbreak has resulted in 789 suspected cases and eight deaths, with over 60 new cases reported daily.

The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan and Effia Kwesimintsim Municipal areas are the epicenters of the outbreak, accounting for 95% of the reported infections. Environmental surveillance has identified contaminated vegetables—particularly salads, leaves, and green peppers sold by food vendors—as the primary source of the infections, linking them to 96% of cases.

In response, the WRCC has imposed an immediate ban on the sale of vegetables by food vendors throughout the region. Violators will face prosecution under the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851). The ban will remain in effect until health authorities deem it safe to resume such sales.

The WRCC has also issued a stern warning to the general public, urging residents to avoid purchasing or consuming vegetables from food vendors. Those using vegetables for domestic purposes are advised to ensure they are properly cleaned and treated before consumption.

Oliver Cromwell, the Regional Environmental Health Analyst, emphasised the urgency of these measures, stating, “Protecting public health is our top priority. We cannot afford to lose more lives to preventable infections. We are counting on the public’s cooperation to curb this outbreak.”

The WRCC said it remained committed to ensuring the health and safety of residents and will continue to monitor the situation closely.