COVID-19: Three-day Period For Negative PCR Test Result Still Stands – Akufo-Addo

President Akufo-Addo has described as untenable calls for the extension of the three-day negative PCR test requirement for persons seeking to travel to Ghana through the country’s air borders.

According to him, the extension will not be in the best interest of the country.

In his 18th COVID-19 address to the nation on Sunday, October 18, 2020, the President defended the current timeframe of three days negative PCR test results.

“I am aware that some are calling for the Government to extend the PCR negative test period before boarding the flight from three days to at least five days. I believe, in the context of the second wave of infections that is engulfing so many countries of Europe and America, that we have to insist on the three (3) day period. It is better to be safe than sorry”, he added.

He said, 30,564 passengers, have so far undergone COVID-19 testing following the reopening of the Kotoka International Airport six weeks ago.

Nana Akufo-Addo further indicated that out of the number tested, only 92 have been positive.

“Following the provision of testing facilities, which ensure the speed and accuracy of COVID-19 testing, Kotoka International Airport was reopened on 1^st September 2020. It has been six weeks since the reopening, and a total of 30,564 passengers have been tested, from which 92 have tested positive. All 92 are asymptomatic cases, whose status, but for the test, would not have been detected, and would have spread the disease amongst the rest of the population.”

The airport was closed in March as part of measures to curtail the spread of COVID-19.

It was however reopened on Tuesday, September 1, 2020.

All passengers coming to Ghana by air are required to pay $150 for a 30-minute PCR COVID-19 test to check their status.

---Citinewsroom