GHS initiates measures to prevent coronavirus outbreak in Ghana

Ghana has initiated measures to protect the general public from the novel coronavirus detected in China.
By doing so, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) is adhering to a directive by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to countries to strengthen prevention and control measures for 2019-nCoV.
The measures include 1: Alert message sent to all regions in Ghana on the outbreak in addition to guidance information on the disease.
2: Enhanced surveillance at points of entry especially the Kotoka International Airport.
In addition, the GHS stated that there is in-country capacity to diagnose 2019-nCoV through laboratory testing of the appropriate samples by the Nuguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research.
“As part of measures to prevent an outbreak in Ghana, passengers from China will undergo enhanced screening procedures including the administration of health questionnaire. Health facilities have also been alerted to prepare and manage cases in case of an outbreak,” the GHS stated.
It also called on the general public to regularly wash their hands with soap and running water, rub hands with alcohol or sanitisers where available as a preventive measure.
The GHS advised the public to keep a distance of at least one step (one meter) from a person showing signs of fever, cough and difficulty in breathing.
Also, the GHS has advised people to seek treatment immediately if infection is suspected, if symptoms occur or when advised by a health worker.
Below is the statement by GHS:


 
 
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