The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) is urging the government to consider a nationwide lockdown immediately to contain the spread of Covid-19.
Though the Association acknowledges the challenges associated with its recommendation, it appears to be the only option left for the country as the disease keeps spreading, it noted.
As of Wednesday, March 25, 2020 Ghana has recorded 68 cases of coronavirus with three deaths.
A statement issued by the GMA on Wednesday wants only persons rendering essential services be allowed to go out.
“The Lockdown though not a comfortable decision for leadership and citizens alike, is a proven option backed by science and along with the other measures will ultimately be in our best interest. We call on all Ghanaians to support such a move in the national interest to save our nation from the devastating effects of this pandemic.”
The statement was signed by Dr Frank Ankobea and Dr. Justice Yankson, the GMA President and General Secretary respectively.
Below is the full statement
PRESS STATEMENT ON NATIONAL RESPONSE TO COVID-19
The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has observed with grave concern the increasing trend of confirmed cases for COVID-19 in Ghana and our national response to the pandemic. On the day of national prayer and fasting we call on all Ghanaians to keep this sacred and intercede for the nation
The GMA being fully conscious of the threat posed by the pandemic, the disturbing trend of community spread and the obvious inadequate of capacity (logistic and human resource) of the nation’s health system to deal with increased numbers of COVID-19 infection especially in the severe to critical cases call on His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana to declare a Nationwide Lockdown with the exception of essential services with immediate effect
The Lockdown though not a comfortable decision for leadership and citizens alike, is a proven option backed by science and along with the other measures will ultimately be in our best interest. We call on all Ghanaians to support such a move in the national interest to save our nation from the devastating effects of this pandemic
Dr Frank Ankobea President GMA
Dr. Justice Yankson General Secretary, GMA
Source: 3news.com | Ghana