As part of efforts to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus, the Northern Regional Security Council has banned prostitution and its related activities in that part of Ghana.

A statement issued to that effect on Wednesday said: “The coronavirus pandemic continues to pose huge health threats globally. The recent report of ten confirmed cases in Tamale is a wake-up call for all of us to abide by all directives issued to contain COVID-19 and to restrain ourselves against any practices that will expose us to any danger”.

“It also requires drastic measures to curtail the rapid spread of the virus so as to ensure the health and safety of everyone.

“Accordingly, the Regional Security Council, REGSEC, has decided to place a ban on prostitution and its related activities with immediate effect.

“Those involved in the practice and its related activities within the region are therefore advised to cease any engagement in those acts, forthwith.

“Those who defy this directive will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the laws of the Republic. We appeal to the citizenry to be vigilant and report any of such cases to the security agencies”, the statement noted.

According to updates by the Ghana Health Service, as of 11:00hrs on Wednesday, Ghana has recorded 195 cases COVID-19 with five (5) deaths.

The number of regions reporting cases remain five (5) (Greater Accra, Ashanti, Northern, Upper West and Eastern).

The Greater Accra Region has the most cases (174) followed by the Northern Region (10), Ashanti Region (9), Upper West Region (1) and Eastern Region (1).

Most reported cases now are from routine / enhanced surveillance activities, the GHS said, adding: “Cases from travellers under mandatory quarantine remain 89 (Tamale-10; Accra- 79) whereas the cases from routine surveillance currently stands at 106 (Accra – 95; Kumasi – 8; Obuasi – 2 and Kpong – 1).

All five (5) deaths had underlying chronic medical conditions prior to COVID-19 infection.

Recovered & Discharged: three (3) have recovered and discharged; while one other is awaiting results of laboratory test to inform decision on discharge.