The government of Ghana has lifted COVID-19 restrictions at entry points in order to restore normalcy while remaining committed to vaccination efforts and implementing necessary health measures to safeguard the population.
In a recent statement released by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) on Saturday, May 20, 2023, it was announced that Ghana has lifted all COVID-19 restrictions at its entry points. The decision comes in response to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration on May 5, 2023, that COVID-19 is no longer a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
According to Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, pre-departure testing and testing at all entry points will no longer be required for passengers. Additionally, the COVID-19 health declaration form for international travelers has been suspended.
Per the statement, the changes will take effect immediately on May 20, 2023.
During the national COVID-19 Task Force meeting on May 17, 2023, these decisions were made based on the current global and national COVID-19 situation. Ghana’s health systems have demonstrated sufficient capacity to handle potential threats, such as outbreaks of Marburg Virus Disease, Lassa Fever, Monkey Pox, Measles, and Yellow Fever, while simultaneously responding to COVID-19.
The Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Ghana Health Service (GHS) in collaboration with partners, will remain prepared and adaptable to manage any future surges in COVID-19 cases and the emergence of new variants with increased severity or capacity.
To ensure ongoing protection against COVID-19 infections, the GHS emphasized the need for continued vigilance and the following measures:
The COVID-19 vaccination drive will persist, encouraging individuals to get vaccinated.
Individuals experiencing symptoms of fever, cough, and sore throat will be tested for both influenza and COVID-19 at sentinel sites across all 16 regions.
Surveillance efforts will continue to identify any new COVID-19 variants of concern.
The public is urged to maintain general safety measures, including frequent handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
Individuals with complaints of fever, cough, and sore throat should promptly seek medical attention at the nearest health facility. Those who test positive for COVID-19 will be managed according to existing protocols.
With the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions at all entry points, Ghana aims to restore normalcy while remaining committed to vaccination efforts and implementing necessary health measures to safeguard the population. The GHS remains vigilant in its efforts to protect the well-being of Ghanaians and will continue working alongside its partners to ensure public health and safety.
SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh
