Govt Takes Proactive Steps to Tackle Possible COVID-19 Resurgence in Ghana
Ghana’s Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that the government is proactively securing COVID-19 vaccines locally to prepare for a possible resurgence of the virus. This move comes as new cases—mostly the Omicron variant—have been confirmed at the University of Ghana, though no hospitalizations or deaths have been reported. The Ministry of Health will prioritize high-risk groups and maintain treatment readiness while urging the public to remain vigilant and observe basic safety measures.
Ama Boah
Ghana Government Takes Proactive Measures to Secure COVID‑19 Vaccines Amid Resurgence Concerns
Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has confirmed that the government is actively working to secure COVID‑19 vaccines locally as part of heightened efforts to prepare for a possible resurgence of the virus. This announcement comes in response to a recent uptick in confirmed infections.
Rising Cases, But No Severe Illness
The ministry revealed that among 316 suspected cases, 107 have been confirmed, mainly linked to the Omicron variant, and largely concentrated at the University of Ghana campus. Encouragingly, there have been no hospitalizations or deaths tied to these cases.
Government Response: Vaccine Procurement
Addressing Parliament, Minister Akandoh noted that though COVID‑19 vaccination is no longer part of the routine immunisation schedule—reflecting global trends—it remains an important tool in combating severe disease and limiting transmission among high-risk groups.
“In preparation for a potential surge, we have initiated the necessary processes to secure vaccines in‑country,” Mr Akandoh said.
He emphasized that this initiative prioritizes vulnerable populations, including the elderly and individuals with underlying medical conditions, who are more likely to develop severe complications from COVID‑19.
Surveillance & Treatment Preparedness
The Minister highlighted that Ghana’s national disease surveillance system detected the university outbreak, with confirmation by the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research. He added that the recent rise in respiratory infections—including influenza-like illnesses—may be related to the rainy season .
On the treatment front, Akandoh reassured Ghanaians that effective options remain available. Paxlovid, an antiviral taken twice daily for five days, is the recommended therapy for mild to moderate cases in high-risk groups like those with diabetes or hypertension. He noted that most people recover at home with symptom-based care, while hospitals are equipped to manage serious cases with oxygen therapy and comprehensive clinical support.
Call for Public Vigilance & National Readiness
Minister Akandoh concluded by reaffirming the government's proactive stance and call for preparedness. He urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant, especially those most at risk, and welcomed ongoing efforts by health authorities, including:
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Continued surveillance of other public health threats such as seasonal flu, cholera, and monkeypox (MPOX).
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Advocacy by the Ghana Health Service and experts—such as Professor Kofi Bonney from Noguchi—for basic COVID‑19 safety protocols, including mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and social distancing.
Summary:
|
Key Point |
Details |
|
Spike in cases |
107 confirmed, no severe outcomes yet |
|
Focused around |
University of Ghana, Omicron variant |
|
Government steps |
Vaccine procurement, treatment readiness |
|
Vulnerable groups |
Elderly, chronic conditions |
|
Public message |
Stay vigilant, health systems ready |
In the face of a possible COVID‑19 resurgence fuelled by seasonal respiratory infections, the government’s swift vaccine procurement plan, along with treatment readiness and sustained public advisories, is intended to avert future outbreaks. Minister Akandoh reassures that Ghana has the tools and capacity to protect its citizens while encouraging continued cooperation and caution across all communities.
Source:
myjoyonline.com
adomonline.com
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