Civil Society Organization, SEND GHANA has called on the Government of Ghana to prioritize a long term preparedness and effective response by establishing a dedicated and sustainable source of funding for epidemic response at both national and district levels.
It has also called on the Government to demonstrate commitment to public health security by making budgetary allocations for public health emergency funding, ensuring timely and adequate resources to prevent and manage future outbreaks effectively.
According to SEND Ghana, a well-funded public health emergency system will ensure rapid response, reduce casualties, and protect lives when these outbreaks occur.
“The new Government must demonstrate its commitment to strengthening Ghana’s public health systems by investing in sustainable disease prevention and preparedness,” the Organisation stated.
The call comes amidst the outbreak of cholera across Ghana and the rising cases of meningitis in the northern regions.
The cholera outbreak, which began in the Western and Central regions in October 2024, is steadily spreading to other areas, including the Eastern, Greater Accra, and Northern regions.
Meanwhile, meningitis cases are also rising in parts of the Northern Ghana, posing an additional threat to public health.
Reacting to this, SEND Ghana in a statement called on the government to take immediate and decisive action to contain these outbreaks and prevent further loss of lives.
It said the simultaneous outbreaks of these diseases demand urgent and coordinated action to protect lives and prevent further escalation.
“As a matter of urgency, we strongly urge the Ghana Health Service to equip the Health Promotion Unit with the necessary resources to implement a comprehensive public education campaign on cholera and meningitis control. This should be done through traditional and social media, as well as community information centres, to raise public awareness and interest effectively,” it stated.
In the meantime, SEND Ghana has also urged all Ghanaians to adhere to the health protocols and guidance provided by the Ghana Health Service to effectively manage both the cholera and meningitis outbreaks.
It noted that Public cooperation is essential in preventing further spread and saving lives.
Meanwhile, SEND GHANA said it remains committed to advocating for stronger public health systems and will continue to engage stakeholders to ensure a safer and healthier Ghana for all.
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Ghana| Atinkaonline.com | Porcia Oforiwaa
