The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has revealed that a new case of human metapneumovirus has been detected in Ghana, as the country continues to battle outbreaks of cholera and other diseases.
Providing updates to Parliament on the current health emergencies on Tuesday, February 18, the Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to manage the situation and prevent further spread.
He stated that the cholera outbreak, which began in October 2024 in the Greater Accra Region, has so far affected five regions: Greater Accra, Central, Western, Ashanti, and Eastern. As of February 13, 2025, a total of 6,145 cases have been reported, including 719 confirmed cases and 49 deaths.
He noted that the Central Region remains the epicenter of the outbreak, with districts such as Agona West and Effutu recording high case numbers.
Mr. Akandoh emphasized that despite the challenges, the situation in the Central Region is improving, with new cases showing a steady decline.
According to him, currently 28 active cases are under treatment in the region, with Cape Coast, Effutu, and Agona West districts accounting for the admissions.
He also identified key factors driving the spread of cholera, including poor sanitation, open defecation, reliance on unsafe water sources, and improper food handling practices. He emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach to address these challenges and prevent future outbreaks.
