Accra: Residents of Sibi, a suburb in the Nkwanta North District of the Oti Region, are compelled to use water from contaminated sources due to the unavailability of potable drinking water in the area. This situation has exacerbated the risk of waterborne diseases, notably typhoid, which has become a pressing health concern in the region.

According to Ghana News Agency, the region is experiencing a significant increase in typhoid fever cases, with Nkwanta North being one of the hardest-hit areas. Data from the Ghana Health Service indicates that there have been 1,589 recorded cases of typhoid fever in the first half of this year alone, raising alarm among health authorities and residents alike.

The water scarcity in the area is severe, forcing residents to face the dangers of encountering snakes and other reptiles while searching for water for daily use. This has intensified fears regarding the long-term health effects of relying on such precarious water sources.

Mr. Eric Kojo Agboka, the District Health Director of Nkwanta North, emphasized the necessity of coordinated efforts to tackle both the outbreak and the underlying issues of water quality and sanitation. He also called for enhanced public awareness campaigns on hygiene and sanitation practices to reduce disease transmission.