The Police Hospital morgue is emitting a foul odour, comparable to that of a sewer, resulting in the shutdown of the Hospital's laboratory.
The repugnant smell from the morgue has permeated the laboratory and affected other units within the facility.
According to a source at the Hospital, the situation is attributed to a large number of unidentified bodies in the morgue, coupled with several malfunctioning fridges.
This unpleasant condition has persisted for approximately one month.
The Ghana News Agency (GNA) and other visitors who arrived at the laboratory on Wednesday morning were turned away by an officer.
The officer explained that the lab had been closed due to the offensive odour from the morgue, which was detrimental to the well-being of both staff and patients.
He expressed uncertainty regarding when the situation would be addressed.
The GNA observed that clients who were aware of the situation were wearing nose masks, while others hastily covered their noses with their hands as they hurriedly left the premises.
Madam Stella Kumedzro, an Environmental Health Analyst, expressed her concern over the discomfort experienced by patients and staff at the Hospital, deeming it unacceptable and warning of potential allergic reactions.
She further highlighted the risk of severe housefly infestation resulting from the situation.
Madam Kumedzro cautioned that the fluid draining from the decomposed bodies might contain chemicals like formalin, which, if not properly disposed of, could expose individuals to health challenges such as cancers.
Additionally, she noted that the fluid, containing chemicals, could contaminate the soil and eventually find its way into water bodies following heavy rainfall.
She advised the Hospital to seek assistance from the Environmental Health Office to initiate the necessary procedures for the mass burial of the corpses.
Mr Douglas N. A. Tagoe, the Greater Accra Environmental Health Regional Director, confirmed to the GNA that his office would instruct the Hospital to urgently address the overcrowding in the fridges, disinfect the area, and eliminate the unpleasant odour.
