The Ghana Health Service (GHS), through the Ministry of Health, has issued a public health alert urging Ghanaians to take preventive measures against diseases and other health risks associated with the onset of the rainy season.
In a statement dated May 29, 2026, the GHS warned that heavy rains could increase the spread of waterborne and mosquito-borne diseases, while also posing additional risks to public health and safety.
According to the Service, early rains can wash contaminated faecal matter into water sources, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery.
The statement also noted that stagnant rainwater creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes, thereby increasing the likelihood of infections, including malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever.
The GHS further cautioned that vegetables grown near water bodies and improperly handled food may become contaminated during the rainy season, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
In addition, flooding may force reptiles, including snakes, out of their natural habitats and into residential areas, increasing the chances of human contact.
To reduce these risks, the Ghana Health Service has advised the public to keep their surroundings clean, eliminate stagnant water, clear bushes around their homes, and ensure that all food is thoroughly cooked before consumption.
Residents are also encouraged to wash fruits and vegetables with clean water and salt or vinegar, purchase food only from hygienic and reputable sources, wash their hands regularly with soap under running water, and seek prompt medical attention if they develop symptoms of illness.
The Service urged food vendors to maintain high standards of hygiene by sourcing food from approved suppliers, separating raw foods from cooked meals, properly washing fruits and vegetables, and ensuring that their food handling certificates remain valid.
As part of flood preparedness measures, residents have been advised to keep doors and windows closed where possible, raise valuable belongings above floor level during flooding, and eliminate bushes and holes around their homes that could provide shelter for reptiles.
The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding public health and called on all residents to cooperate in preventing disease outbreaks during the rainy season.
The statement was signed by the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea.
