Oti Region records over 10,000 Typhoid cases in six months

More than 10,000 typhoid fever cases have been confirmed in Ghana’s Oti Region during the first half of 2025, raising serious public health concerns and prompting swift action from authorities.

The Regional Health Directorate reports that a total of 10,233 cases were documented between January and June.

In just the first quarter, 4,417 cases were confirmed. That number jumped to 5,816 in the second quarter alone.

Regional Environmental Health Officer Cynthia Sekyere says the situation reflects deeper challenges affecting many communities.

“This outbreak is a sign of long-standing issues with access to clean water and proper sanitation. We need urgent changes to how we manage waste and provide safe drinking water,” she said.

Health officials link the spread of typhoid mainly to contaminated food and water.

Poor sanitation infrastructure, open defecation, and limited access to potable water have worsened the outbreak, especially in vulnerable communities.

In response, the Oti Regional Coordinating Council has launched a new sanitation task force.

This team, in partnership with environmental health officers, will lead sanitation campaigns, strengthen waste disposal systems, and roll out clean water initiatives across affected areas.

Meanwhile, Prosper Addo, Municipal Chief Executive of Krachi West, is calling on residents to play their part.

“The outbreak is hitting vulnerable populations the hardest. Community involvement is essential in promoting hygiene practices and supporting efforts to curb this public health challenge,” he said.

Authorities are urging residents to boil or treat water before drinking and to follow hygiene guidelines. The newly formed task force also plans to enforce local sanitation laws and prosecute violations.