The Ministry of Health has widened their checks on passengers at the Kotoka International Airport to all internationals on the new strain coronavirus.

The Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases around the world after originating at a seafood market in the central Chinese city of Wuhan.

The virus has been confirmed in 16 countries.

According to the MoH, it has enhanced measures included in the modification of the health declaration forms at the airport to suit surveillance demands due to the outbreak of the respiratory disease. Speaking to the Daily Graphic in Accra yesterday, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Ministry Mr Elorm Ametepe, said the Minister of Health, Mr Kwaku Agyemang-Manu, had, after a high-level technical meeting, issued an official release in relation to surveillance updates.

“We are preparing to designate more centres in highly populated areas such as Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi and Tamale,” it said,

“Screening for fever using walk-through thermometers and non-contact thermometers was also ongoing at the KIA and other points of entry.”

READ ALSO:

Federal Government Declares War On Lassa Fever, Coronavirus

It mentioned other surveillance measures to include the development of social media messages on the disease for the public, with the aim of helping people to practice the necessary preventive measures.

The statement outlined other preventive measures such as regular washing of hands with soap under running water, using alcohol hand rubs, where necessary, and keeping a distance of at least one metre from a person showing signs of fever, cough and difficulty in breathing.

It cited other preventive measures to include staying physically active, drinking plenty of water, eating well and healthily, reducing stress and getting enough sleep.

It also entreated the public to avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, in case of contact with a sick person or potentially affected surfaces or objects.

Furthermore, it called on people to seek treatment immediately at the nearest health facility if infections were suspected, if symptoms showed or when advised by a health worker.

106 people have died in China , with more than 4,515 cases recorded as of last Monday, forcing the country to step up its response to the crisis by restricting movements and closing tourist sites.

Cases have also been confirmed in Europe, North America and several Asian countries.

Cote d’Ivoire is dealing with a suspected case of the virus.