Accra Technical University (ATU) records first case of COVID-19

A National Service Personnel of the Accra Technical University (ATU) has tested positive to COVID-19.

The Institution becomes the first Tertiary Institution in the country to have recorded a case since the reopening of Institutions about a week ago.   

The Personnel who is said to be with an Academic Department, tested positive to the disease on Sunday, June 21, after showing symptoms of fever, headache, and runny nose.

This was contained in a press statement signed by the Acting Director of Public Affairs of the institution on June 23, 2020.

Personnel Responding to Treatment

“The personnel reported to a medical facility in her neighborhood after experiencing symptoms of fever, headache, and runny nose. After COVID-19 tests were conducted, the result was communicated to the service personnel on Sunday, 21^st June 2020” the statement read.

“The said person is currently, in isolation at a medical facility and responding well to treatment” the statement added.

Contact Tracing and Isolation Ongoing

Samples of six other colleagues who came into contact have been taken for laboratory testing, the statement which was addressed to the University community indicated.

“The contacts have been asked to self-isolate while waiting for the result of the test. The University Medical Team and Safety and Health Committee are, however, in touch with the patient and contacts to provide the needed medical and psychological support.”  

The academic department and its environment will be fumigated and contact tracing continued among its officers.

Remain Calm

The statement urged the University community to remain calm in the face of the recorded case and adhere strictly to all the safety protocols.

“Please, continue to do everything you can to stay healthy, wash your hands frequently, wipe down surfaces, avoid touching your face whenever possible, cover your coughs and sneezes with your arm and elbow. Remember that social distancing remains the key in the university’s response.”

Reopening of Universities

ATU was part of Universities across the country that reopened on June 15, to enable final year students to complete their education after about three months of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their academic work is expected to end on July 24.

Get COVID-19 Updates from Ghana Health Service

Source: Vida Essel-Lamptey / GhanaPlus.com