COMMUNIQUE: Novel Corona Virus Disease 2019 (Covid 19)

On Thursday, 12th March 2020, the Ministry of Health confirmed to Ghanaians the first two cases of Covid 19. Covid 19 has been identified as an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Since late 2019 there has been a global spread of this disease, resulting in the 2019–20 coronavirus pandemic. Common symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. In addition to these the less common symptoms include muscle pain, sputum production and sore throat. It has been noted that the majority of cases result in mild symptoms. It is imperative to note that the case fatality rate recorded worldwide is estimated at between 1% and 5% but varies by age and other health conditions. On Wednesday, 11th March 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared Covid 19 a pandemic.

The Executive Council would like to urge all members to be circumspect in reporting on the issue of Covid 19. It is important to ensure that the listening and viewing public is fully and adequately informed of preventive measures to be embarked upon by all and sundry. It is critical that in our reportage, members avoid all situations that could lead to panic attacks. This is the time to remain calm, but vigilant.

The Executive Council, while appreciating members who, since the announcement by the Minister of Health have taken steps to educate their listeners and viewers, continues to urge members to make it a priority to allay the fears of Ghanaians in their reportage. The Ministry of Health and its allied agencies are doing all within their power to make sure Ghana remains a safe place. In addition, Government has assured Ghanaians that there are adequate protocols in place per the WHO guidelines to ensure that we remain safe.

Below are the hotline numbers provided by the Ministry of Health (Ghana Covid 19):

  • 0552222004
  • 0552222005
  • 0509497700
  • 0558439868