Mr. Bismark Kwabla Kpobi, Executive Director of the BSK Health Advocacy Foundation, has emphasized integrating mental health support into the national response to the ongoing cholera outbreak.
In a press statement, he highlighted the devastating impact of the disease, which has claimed over 50 lives across five regions in Ghana, including Central, Greater Accra, Western, Ashanti, and Eastern.
Mr. Kpobi noted that while cholera vaccination efforts have begun, the outbreak continues to exert immense pressure on hospitals and healthcare workers. He stressed that cholera, caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacteria, not only leads to severe dehydration and death if untreated but also inflicts psychological distress on victims, their families, and affected communities. Anxiety, trauma, and fear have been prevalent, making mental health support a critical component of the intervention strategy.
Mr. Kpobi called for a multi-sectoral approach involving the Ministry of Health, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Food and Drugs Authority, and the Public Health Department to launch a holistic awareness campaign to address these challenges. He also urged increased community engagement to promote hygiene practices and the integration of mental health services into cholera response efforts.
Furthermore, he advocated for the reactivation of community task forces to monitor and encourage sanitation measures, ultimately preventing future outbreaks.
Mr. Kpobi reiterated that safeguarding mental health during health crises is crucial for resilience, urging authorities and stakeholders to act decisively. He called on the government, NGOs, and the public to unite in addressing both the physical and psychological impacts of cholera.
