In a decisive move to combat the ongoing cholera outbreak in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, the Western Regional office of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has suspended the operations of two sachet water production companies.
Both companies, based in Takoradi, were found to be operating under unsanitary conditions, including the failure to regularly replace water filters.
The violations were uncovered during a recent surveillance exercise conducted by the FDA to identify and address factors contributing to the region’s alarming cholera situation.
The outbreak has so far claimed 16 lives, with health authorities managing 103 confirmed cases.
Dr. Martin Kusi, the Western Regional Director of the FDA, emphasized the Authority’s commitment to ensuring public safety.
As part of their intensified efforts, the FDA has issued a two-week ultimatum to 86 sachet water producers in the region to submit their water sources for testing at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
“We are not leaving any stone unturned in the fight against cholera and the Christmas festivity we have instructed 86 sachet water producer who cut across the coastal belt from Ahanta West, Shama, EKMA and STMA to send their water sources to the Lab for testing and we will halt the operations of any sachet water producer if any element of faecal matter is found,” he stated.
He further added that food vendors have been cautioned to have veronica buckets placed at their premises to enable people wash their hands regularly.
As the Christmas season approaches, he reminded the public to be cautious about the food they consume. He urged the public to make it a point of need to check canned products for expire dates and inspect possible rust on them as well.
“Those who have the tendency to leave their beverages and food in public as they make merry during this yuletide season should be cautious as such individuals risk a chance of probable food poisoning,” Dr. Kusi advised.
