COVID-19: 779 health professionals infected, nine dead in Ghana

According to the Association, nine of its members have died as a result of the virus.

“As at 30th June 2020, over seven hundred and seventy-nine (779) health workers had contracted the COVID- 19 virus in the line of duty with a total of nine (9) deaths having occurred so far. A large number of health workers are also currently in isolation awaiting their test results after having been exposed to the virus at their places of work.”

“The data gathered so far indicates that; 190 members of the GMA (Doctors) have contracted the virus with 4 unfortunate deaths. 410 members of the GRNMA and its Allied Associations (Nurses and Midwives) have contracted the virus with 1 unfortunate death. 156 members of the HSWU have contracted the virus with 3 unfortunate deaths. 23 members of the GHOSPA have contracted the virus with 1 unfortunate death,” the statement noted.

The health sector unions said the worrying situation is due to what they believe are serious lapses in the government’s management of the COVID-19 situation in the country.

Among other things, they said the supply of personal protective equipment for health workers have been erratic and often those they receive are inappropriate.

Kwaku Agyeman Manu Pulse Ghana

While admitting that some health workers were not observing COVID-19 preventive measures, the joint health sector unions also accused facility managers of not being transparent with health workers with regards to their colleagues who may have tested positive.

“Non-disclosure or concealment of information from health workers by facility managers when colleagues test positive for COVID-19 at the workplace… Delays in the receipt of COVID-19 test results for patients being managed onwards resulting in increased exposure of health personnel to the virus,” they mentioned in their statement.