Ghanaian authorities confirmed two cases of the COVID-19, Thursday evening at a press briefing. Ghana’s Minister for Health, Mr Kwasi Agyemang-Manu led the charge.
These two instances are the first cases of the COVID-19 to test positive in Ghana; we recall some 57 suspected cases previously tested, proved negative.
Noguchi Memorial Institute received laboratory results of the two confirmed cases. It is also important to note that these instances are not homegrown. Both individuals returned to Ghana from Norway and Turkey respectively.
“Both individuals returned to Ghana from Norway and Turkey. So these are imported cases of COVID-19”
Mr Agyemang-Manu
Meanwhile, the minister assured Ghanaians that the government is working with all health partners to ensure the situation is contained; stating that both victims of the virus were stable and under quarantine. Also, he added that health stakeholders are tracing persons who may have come into contact with the two cases.
“I wish to assure all Ghanaians that the Government of Ghana together with all Health Partners will continue to work assiduously to ensure the situation is contained. Both patients are currently being kept in isolation and are stable. We have initiated processes for contact tracing”
a statement from the Ministry of Health said
On Wednesday evening, President Akufo-Addo addressed concerns regarding the outbreak. He assured Ghanaians that the country was ready in the eventuality of an outbreak. He further indicated the government had directed the release of the cedi equivalent of $100 million to boost the nation’s preparedness and response to the COVID-19.
“At my prompting, the Minister for Finance has made available the cedi equivalent of $100 million to enhance our coronavirus preparedness and response plan”
President Akufo-Addo
Preventive measures
The World Health Organisation (WHO) says there is currently no vaccine, drug or treatment for the disease.
“To date, there is no vaccine and no specific antiviral medicine to prevent or treat COVID-2019”
“Possible vaccines and some specific drug treatments are under investigation. They are being tested through clinical trials. WHO is coordinating efforts to develop vaccines and medicines to prevent and treat COVID-19”
Hence, no evidence suggests that garlic, baking soda, chloroquine, amongst others can cure the coronavirus. The WHO, however, says some of these remedies may provide comfort and alleviate COVID-19 symptoms.
To protect yourself from contracting the disease, practice simple precautionary measures. Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, follow good respiratory hygiene and avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth.
