Cholera risk in Accra

CHOLERA PREVENTION GUIDE FOR ACCRA RESIDENTS Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria. Without treatment, severe dehydration can kill within hours. Accra's risk score of 68/100 reflects ongoing vulnerability due to environmental and infrastructure challenges. LOCAL RISK FACTORS IN ACCRA Accra faces several specific risks. The rainy season (April-July and October-November) causes flooding that contaminates water sources. Many neighborhoods rely on piped water with inconsistent supply, pushing residents to use unverified boreholes and tanker services. Open gutters and poor waste management along major markets like Makola and Kaneshie create breeding grounds for contamination. Informal food vending, a major income source, often lacks proper hygiene oversight. High population density in areas like Nima, James Town, and Old Fadama accelerates transmission when cases emerge. 5 ACTIONABLE PREVENTION STEPS 1. Treat all water before drinking. Boil water vigorously for one full minute, or use certified chlorine products at correct dilution. Avoid ice from unknown sources. Store treated water in clean, covered containers with narrow openings to prevent recontamination. 2. Wash hands with soap and clean water at critical moments: before eating, after using the toilet, before preparing food, and after handling waste. If soap is unavailable, use wood ash as a traditional alternative, though soap remains preferred. 3. Cook food thoroughly and eat while hot. Avoid raw seafood, unpeeled fruits from street vendors, and leftover food stored at room temperature. Peel fruits yourself and discard outer layers of vegetables. 4. Use proper sanitation. If your household lacks a functioning toilet, use designated community facilities. Never defecate near water sources or open drains. Support neighborhood cleanup efforts targeting gutters and drainage channels. 5. Recognize symptoms early and act fast. Watery diarrhea and vomiting require immediate oral rehydration. Prepare a solution: six teaspoons of sugar, half teaspoon of salt, and one liter of treated water. Seek medical care at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital or nearby health centers without delay. Spread these practices within your household and community to reduce collective risk.