Ghana has confirmed two cases of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) currently ravaging the world.
The country’s minister for health, Kwasi Agyemang-Manu, announced at a press briefing on Thursday that two cases had been confirmed after 57 suspected cases previously tested negative.
“Laboratory results of the two confirmed cases were received at the same time from the Noguchi Memorial Institute of Medical Research. Both individuals returned to Ghana, one from Norway, and the other from Turkey so these are imported cases of COVID-19,” Mr Agyemang-Manu said.
The minister assured that the patients have been isolated and are stable; adding that the country had begun tracing persons who have might come in contact with them.
“I wish to assure all Ghanaians that the Government of Ghana together with all Health Partners will continue to work assiduously to ensure the situation is contained. Both patients are currently being kept in isolation and are stable. We have initiated processes for contact tracing,” a statement from the health ministry said.
President Nana Akufo-Addo had on Wednesday said the country was prepared to handle the situation if an outbreak occurs.
“At my prompting, the minister for finance has made available the cedi equivalent of $100 million to enhance our coronavirus preparedness and response plan,” he said.
