The Asuogyaman District in the Eastern Region is grappling with a significant surge in cases of Schistosomiasis, commonly known as Bilharzia.
The District Health Directorate is deeply alarmed by the rapid increase in these cases.
Data from the District Health Directorate reveals a growing cause for concern.
In 2021, the district reported 21 cases of Bilharzia.
This number saw a slight rise to 25 cases in 2022.
However, the most recent statistics are deeply troubling, with 75 cases recorded as of last week.
This represents a remarkable 200% increase in cases in a short period.
The affected individuals are receiving treatment from the GHS, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Bilharzia, a parasitic disease caused by flatworms, can be contracted when individuals come into contact with contaminated bodies of water. The disease is notably associated with bladder cancer and, while there is no vaccine available, there is treatment in the form of medication.
Transmission occurs when larval forms of the parasite, released by freshwater snails, penetrate the skin during contact with infested water. Furthermore, transmission can occur when people infected with schistosomiasis contaminate freshwater sources with feces or urine containing parasite eggs, which then hatch in the water.
The spillage of the Akosombo Hydro Dam, leading to severe flooding in numerous communities and the pollution of the Volta River, is a significant concern.
This situation is potentially exacerbating the spread of Bilharzia due to increased pollution.
Member of Parliament for Asuogyaman, Hon. Thomas Ampem Nyarko, has taken proactive steps to advise residents in flood-affected areas.
He distributed relief items, including rice, cooking oil, and bottled water, with the support of the National Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketia.
Hon. Nyarko advised residents to refrain from drinking raw water from the river or swimming in it to protect themselves from infestation with the Schistosoma parasite and other waterborne infections.
He emphasized the need to thoroughly boil water fetched from the lake and allow it to cool down and filter it before use.
He highlighted that the river has been severely polluted due to the flooding, carrying rubbish and human excreta, making the water unsafe for consumption.
The MP assured residents of his commitment to quickly mechanize a borehole in the Kokonte Kpedzi Community to provide safe drinking water.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
