The Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC) has banned the sale of vegetables by food vendors, following the upsurge of cholera cases in the region.
As at December 7, 2024, 789 suspected cases had been reported with eight deaths recorded across various health facilities.
The WRCC says Environmental surveillance investigations reveal that 96 per cent of infections are linked to food vendors, particularly through the sale of contaminated vegetables such as salads, leaves and green peppers. These findings have prompted immediate action to protect public health.
Daily reported cases exceed 60, with Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan and Effia Kwesimintsim Municipal areas accounting for 95 per cent of infections.
The WRCC, therefore, warned that offenders of the directive would face prosecution in accordance with the Public Health Act, 2012, Act 851.
“The ban will remain in place until public health officials confirm the safety of such practices,” a communique signed by the Regional Environmental Health Analyst, Oliver Cromwell, on December 10, stated.
It strongly advised general public to “avoid purchasing or consuming vegetables from food vendors” for their safety, adding that, vegetables purchased for domestic use should be treated properly before use.
FROM CLEMENT ADZEI BOYE, SEKONDI
