Ghana has in recent weeks recorded a continuous decline in COVID-19 active cases, incidence, hospitalization and deaths. These achievements have been basically due to the restrictions put in place by the Government, the work of the Ghana Health Service, other frontline workers and stakeholders. Of great importance is the initially general good response by the populace to adhere to the lockdown and other restrictions.
The gradual easing of these restrictions resulting in the resumption of activities such as that of the Church and Marshallan activities unfortunately has the potential of erroneously creating the impression that we are out of the woods. It may therefore result in us dropping our guards in respect of the observation of some of these important COVID-19 Prevention Protocols. It should be noted that countries that had reduced observation of COVID-19 Protocols after removal of Lockdown and Restrictions have faced steep re-bound of cases sometimes resulting in very high second waves of COVID-19 infection. Some of them had to quickly re-introduce these restrictive measures.
Failure to continually observe these protocols may lead to increased number of cases and might result in a quick reversal of all gains made including the re-introduction of Church and Marshallan activities. Unfortunately, at this crucial period of our fight against the virus, there is reduced compliance with these protocols especially the all-important wearing of face mask and social-distancing among the general public.
As we prepare towards our Regional Conferences and other Marshallan Activities in the coming weeks, it is important that we remind ourselves not to lax in the strict observation of the key protocols needed to help keep the virus under control and for its eventual elimination.
- Numbers / Social Distancing
It is recommended that the venue of meetings should provide enough room of (at least one meter physical distancing between members). Sending delegates to the regional conference is recommended if this is not feasible. Physical distancing should be maintained throughout the program including meal and photograph taking.
Photographs could be taken in groups to avoid overcrowding. Handshakes are still discouraged.
- Wearing of Face Mask
Wearing of face mask is by far the single most important preventive measure. Face masks should be worn properly and at all times including taking of photographs except during meals.
- Hand Hygiene
Facilities should be provided for hand washing. All Participants should carry Alcohol-based hand sanitizers for personal use.
- Socialization and Serving of Meals
Any Socialization activity should preferably be organized outdoors. It is recommended that meals are served pre-packed and warm.
- Well Ventilated Rooms
Meeting rooms should be well ventilated. Avoid poorly ventilated air-conditioned rooms.
- Supreme Knight’s communications on resumption of Council Meetings
Strict compliance with the Supreme Knight’s communications for resumption of council meetings will help address these preventive measures and the duration of Meetings.
It is hoped that all will continue to adhere to existing COVID-19 protocols and advise other members of our community to do same for the quick and eventual elimination of the virus to enable us get back to the “Old Normal”.
KEEP SAFE, WE NEED ALL IN WHOLE.
W/BRO. PAUL KWAW NTODI, SPH ,RGK