COVID-19: 271 new cases confirmed; death toll now 11

Coronavirus death toll in Ghana now stands at 11 with 1,550 infections, the Ghana Health Service has announced.

This means 271 new cases have been confirmed since the last count which stood at 1,279.

The number of recoveries has also jumped to 155 from 134.

Starr News sources say a new positive case has been confirmed in the Ashanti region bringing the regional total 70. GHS officials in the region say the new case is yet to be added to the national figure.

Below is the regional breakdown of cases

Meanwhile, The Minister of Health has directed all food vendors, commercial vehicle drivers and other selected group of individuals to always wear face mask as part of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

In a statement Saturday, the Minister also directed the use of face mask in all public places where social distancing will be difficult.

“The Minister of Health hereby directs the use of face masks in all public places where it may be difficult to maintain social distancing. The general public is encouraged to wear mask or face covering when going out whether sick or not or attending to a sick person. Incorrect use of face mask carries a high risk of infection,” the directive said.

It added: “The following groups or persons are required at all times to wear masks: Food vendors and sellers at markets, commercial vehicle drivers and attendants, commuters on public transports, persons in public and commercial centres, facilities and buildings including but not limited to offices, bars, workshops, restaurants, sports arenas and spas, saloons, shopping malls, churches, clinics and hospitals and all other facilities accessible to the public whether privately or publicly owned”.