The Chief Executive Officer of Piwak Natural Health, producers of 3P Garlic Mixture, Dr. Prince Nelson Mortoti, has called on Ghanaians to adopt preventive health measures during the rainy season to protect themselves against malaria, cholera, typhoid fever and other diseases that tend to surge during periods of heavy rainfall.
According to Dr. Mortoti, while the rainy season is essential for agriculture, food production and replenishing water resources, it also presents significant public health challenges that require collective action from individuals, families, communities and public institutions.
He explained that increased rainfall often leads to flooding, poor drainage, water contamination and the accumulation of stagnant water, creating conditions that facilitate the spread of infectious diseases.
Dr. Mortoti noted that malaria remains one of the most common and deadly diseases during the rainy season due to the rapid breeding of mosquitoes in stagnant water.
He explained that pools of water collected in gutters, discarded tyres, open containers, potholes and uncompleted buildings provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
“When communities fail to keep their surroundings clean, mosquitoes multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of malaria infections among both children and adults,” he said.
He urged households to eliminate stagnant water around their homes, clear choked gutters, regularly clean compounds and ensure that water storage containers are properly covered.
Dr. Mortoti also encouraged the consistent use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, especially by pregnant women and young children who are among the most vulnerable groups.
He further advised residents to install window screens where possible and wear protective clothing during peak mosquito activity periods.
Cholera and Water-Borne Diseases
The health expert expressed concern about the recurring outbreaks of cholera and other water-borne diseases during the rainy season.
According to him, heavy rains often wash refuse, human waste and other contaminants into streams, rivers and water sources used by communities for drinking and domestic purposes.
He explained that consuming contaminated water or food can expose individuals to cholera, typhoid fever and diarrhoeal diseases, which can lead to severe dehydration and even death if not treated promptly.
“Many of these diseases are preventable. The challenge is that people often underestimate the importance of hygiene until an outbreak occurs,” he stated.
Dr. Mortoti advised the public to drink only clean and treated water, boil water when necessary and avoid purchasing food from unhygienic environments.
He stressed the importance of washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption and ensuring that meals are properly cooked.
Importance of Environmental Sanitation
Dr. Mortoti emphasized that environmental cleanliness remains one of the most effective tools in preventing disease outbreaks.
He called on metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies to intensify sanitation campaigns, desilt drains and enforce sanitation regulations to prevent flooding and improve public health outcomes.
He also urged community leaders, schools, religious institutions and youth groups to organize regular clean-up exercises and educate residents about the dangers associated with poor sanitation.
“Good sanitation is not the responsibility of government alone. Every citizen has a role to play in maintaining a healthy environment,” he said.
Strengthening the Immune System
Beyond environmental measures, Dr. Mortoti encouraged individuals to strengthen their immune systems through healthy lifestyle practices.
He recommended the consumption of nutritious foods rich in vitamins and minerals, regular physical activity, adequate sleep and proper hydration.
According to him, a strong immune system helps the body resist infections and recover more quickly when illness occurs.
He further advised people to reduce excessive alcohol consumption, avoid smoking and seek professional medical care whenever they experience symptoms of illness.
Dr. Mortoti warned against self-medication, which he said often delays proper diagnosis and treatment.
He urged individuals experiencing symptoms such as persistent fever, severe headaches, chills, diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain or unusual weakness to report to the nearest health facility immediately.
“Prompt medical attention can prevent complications and save lives. Delaying treatment can worsen conditions that might otherwise be easily managed,” he cautioned.
Dr. Mortoti concluded by calling for a national commitment to disease prevention during the rainy season.
He noted that reducing the burden of malaria, cholera and other infectious diseases requires cooperation among government agencies, healthcare providers, community organizations and individual citizens.
“The rainy season should be a period of growth and renewal, not a season of sickness and preventable deaths. By maintaining good hygiene, keeping our environment clean and seeking timely healthcare, we can significantly reduce the spread of disease and protect our communities,” he said.
He reaffirmed Piwak Natural Health’s commitment to promoting preventive healthcare education and supporting initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of Ghanaians.
