Fighting cholera is not NDC-NPP Matter ooo

The cholera outbreak in the country must be a concern to all Ghanaians because it can kill within 24 hours of infection if treatment is not sought quickly. The disease, if not properly controlled can spread fast becoming catastrophic and putting everybody at risk, irrespective of one’s social status or political affiliation.

Cholera is an infectious disease caused by bacterial toxin that affects the absorption of water in the small intestine.

Fighting the disease requires all hands on deck and does not need the pointless apportioning of blame to authorities, with the claim that government has failed to lived up to its responsibilities.

Cholera prevention is a shared responsibility involving individuals, communities, agencies, political parties, civil society groups, churches and the media The present Cholera epidemic must be tackled devoid of the usual NDC-NPP politicization, which has crept into every facet of the cherished Ghanaian society. The Daily Democrat believes that political leaders from the NDC, CPP and NPP can help in the crusade against the diseases by educating supporters to observe simple basic hygiene of washing their hands after responding to nature’s call, keeping their surroundings clean and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms of the disease are evident.

For once, our political interests should give way to enable us come together to save the lives of the electorates whose mandates political parties are seeking to lead the country. Cholera outbreaks are usually reported in specific geographical areas before spreading to other places. Collective efforts by our politicians during this period to address this problem would be welcome news and the beginning of solving the country’s socio-economic problems from a common and national perspective. The Daily Democrat would like to suggest that political party activities during this period should be devoted to talking on this threat and no respecter of persons’ cholera.

The messages from politicians should be that improved sanitation and hygiene are still the basic foundation of the fight against cholera in countries where it occurs.

They should educate electorates on how to avoid infection with messages such as: Only drinking boiled water or water that has been sterilised or treated in any way, taking hot coffee and tea, fizzy water and other uncontaminated bottled drinks safe enough to drink. Boiling unpasteurised milk before drinking. Avoiding ice cubes in drinks unless the cubes are made from 'safe water'; Ice cream from doubtful sources may also be contaminated.

Food must be properly prepared and served hot. If it's allowed to stand at room temperature for several hours other bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, may develop.

Avoiding raw fish and shellfish. Avoiding raw fruits and vegetables, unless the individual peels it himself. Be careful eating food from street stalls. If you have to eat this type of food, think carefully about its preparation. Make sure it doesn't contain anything that hasn't been properly prepared.

These pieces of advice will protect people not just against cholera but also against a whole range of bacteria that can cause unpleasant diarrhoea.