COVID-19: Ada experiences low vaccination turnout

Mr. Prince Bawuah, Disease Control Officer, Ada East District has expressed concern about the low turnout at the COVID-19 vaccination centres in the district.

Speaking in an interview, Mr. Bawuah said the Health Directorate as part of public education to raise awareness among the people served notices to some churches and visited them during service to administer the jabs to the congregation but only a few people took the jabs while majority were reluctant.

He said jingles were created and shared through WhatsApp platforms as a means of reaching wider audiences adding that, the fundamental belief of the people was that the disease does not exist and that was one of the major factors for the low patronage.

Mr. Bawuah said vivid information about the COVID-19 vaccination had been relayed through information centres throughout the district adding that, mobile vans were also used to raise the consciousness of residents on the need to for them to take the vaccine.

He pleaded with the residents to take their jabs for their own protection from the COVID-19 virus and called on those who have taken the vaccine to still adhere to the protocols.

Mr. Bawuah also called on assembly members to continue to champion the COVID-19 message and encouraged people within their electoral area to participate in the vaccination exercise with the message: “COVID-19 is still active and real”.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) situation update, as at November 7th, 2021 indicates that a total of 130,649 cases have been recorded; 128,331 recovered or discharged; Severe case still stands at 38, critical condition 12; the dead stood at 1,206, and active cases is 1,112.

According to the GHS information on preventive measures, the public is to observe social distancing; avoid handshaking; and wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Other measures include: cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, dispose of tissues in a closed bin, and wash your hands; always wear a mask, particularly when leaving home; avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

The GHS also encourages the public to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects or surfaces such as remote controls and doorknobs; avoid close contact with people who are sick; call the designated health line for necessary assistance or support if you develop fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.