KEY POINTS
- Cholera outbreak in Effutu has infected 412 people and killed three.
- Local health facilities are overwhelmed and lack urgent medical supplies.
- Parliament demands a response from the health minister within a week.
In order to give a thorough report on the cholera outbreak, cerebrospinal meningitis, and other public health concerns, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has been directed to appear before Parliament within a week.
Health minister summoned over rising public health emergencies
First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor issued the directive on Tuesday in response to MPs’ concerns about the burden on healthcare facilities and the increase in disease outbreaks.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who led the conversation, emphasized the seriousness of the cholera outbreak in Effutu Municipality, where 412 cases have been reported and three people have died.
“Affected individuals are presently undergoing treatment at the UEW Clinic, the Winneba Municipal Hospital, and the Winneba Health Center, Mr. Speaker. He said that these facilities were overburdened.
Municipal health system lacks funding for critical response
According to Myjoyonline, The Municipal Health Director stated that the local health system urgently requires funding for public awareness campaigns, medical supplies, fuel, and sanitation, according to Afenyo-Markin.
Afenyo-Markin said he had given the health directorate financial support and a pickup truck to help with the response. But he emphasized that without prompt government action, these initiatives were insufficient on their own.
“The Municipal Assembly lacks the resources to help those in need in different medical facilities or to educate the public. To save lives, the federal government must act right now. “The people are in pain,” he said.
First Deputy Speaker Ahiafor responded by issuing a strict order.
“I give the Health Minister a week’s notice to come before the House and update Parliament on all the health-related matters brought up on the floor. “I’m so direct, Speaker,” Ahiafor remarked.
