Rainy Season Triggers Rise in Waterborne Diseases Across Ghana

Health facilities across Ghana are reporting increased cases of illnesses linked to contaminated water and poor sanitation as the rainy season intensifies.

Clinicians say hospitals are seeing more patients with symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, typhoid, and malaria. While no major outbreak has been confirmed, health workers describe the trend as concerning.

At the Shai Osudoku District Hospital, staff report a rise in outpatient attendance, especially cases linked to flooding and unsafe water sources.

Flooding and poor sanitation driving infections

Medical experts say heavy rains often contaminate drinking water sources when floodwaters mix with waste from open drains and latrines.

A specialist clinician, Dr Edith Yeboah Duah, explained that this creates ideal conditions for disease spread, especially in areas with weak sanitation systems.

Children, elderly people, and individuals with low immunity face the highest risk.

Community concerns over waste management

Residents in affected areas, including Osu Anorhor in the Greater Accra Region, say poor drainage and waste disposal systems are worsening flooding during rainfall.

They report that blocked gutters and improper dumping of refuse contribute to stagnant water and recurring floods during heavy rains.

One resident noted that waste often ends up in drains, worsening sanitation challenges when it rains.

Health warnings to the public

Health authorities are urging people to:

• Drink safe and treated water
• Maintain personal and environmental hygiene
• Clear blocked drains around homes
• Seek early medical care when symptoms appear

Officials say stronger enforcement of sanitation by-laws and improved waste management are key to reducing seasonal disease outbreaks.