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Ghana: Cholera Outbreak - Oct 2016

Disaster description

Cholera has erupted in the southern Cape Coast district, with a sudden escalation of cases within days, rising from 36 on 26 October 2016 to 117 by 30 October, notably with no fatality. The cases are originating from communities in the outskirts of Cape Coast Metropolitan. The exponential increase in the number of cases denotes high transmission potential of infections in the communities. Detailed assessment is being conducted to establish the predisposing factors responsible for the high attack rate. A rapid response team has been deployed to support the regional and district response. (OCHA, 1 Nov 2016)

By 2 November, the total number of cases had risen to 172 with zero deaths. The exponential increase in cases indicates high transmission potential of infections in the peri urban communities. Central region is made up of 26 districts, six of these districts have reported cholera cases. The districts are Cape Coast Municipal, Abura Asebu Kwamankese, Komenda Edina Eguafo Abrem, Twifo Hermang, Asekuma Odoben Brakwa and Mfantseman districts. In response to the outbreak, Ghana Red Cross Society (GRCS) is participating in national and regional level coordination mechanisms. The operation will target 252,000 people (63,000 households). (IFRC, 8 Nov 2016)

By 9 January 2017, UNICEF reported a total of 596 cases in 2016. (UNICEF, 9 Jan 2017)

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