A senior medical officer and public health expert at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Dr. Emmanuel Addipa- Adapoe has called on members of the public, who are yet to be vaccinated against Covid-19, to do so and seek education about the disease in order to aid efforts to combat it.
At a Media engagement on uptake of vaccines in Ghana, a two day workshop organized by Africa Media and Malaria Research Network for over 50 Journalist in Accra, Dr. Emmanuel well known as the ‘Covid Doctor’ emphasized the importance of vaccination and proper awareness in the ongoing fight against COVID-19.
He urged the public to understand that vaccines play a crucial role in preventing severe illness and saving lives.
Dr. Emmanuel addressed the current situation, stating that while there haven’t been any recorded deaths of COVID-19, there are still cases of the virus being reported.
He compared the disease to normal illness, with symptoms similar to malaria. “There haven’t been any death recorded yet but there are cases of covid being recorded. Covid is like a normal disease and it symptoms is similar to malaria” he said.
However, he stressed that the availability of medication for mild to moderate cases ensures that individuals can manage their health at home. “what I need to let the public know is that medication is available for the public, so the mild to moderate cases will receive medication and they can take it at home”.
The senior medical officer called for increased public awareness regarding influenza-like diseases, coughs, and colds stating them as symptoms of COVID-19.
Creating awareness that COVID hasn’t been eradicated yet is important to prevent the spread of the virus and other illnesses.
Dr. Emmanuel stressed the reduced severity of COVID-19 symptoms for those who have been vaccinated, emphasizing the vaccine’s effectiveness in protecting those who are vaccinated . ” The vaccine has reduced the severity of covid for those who have been vaccinated. Those who are not vaccinated show more drastic symptoms” he added.
He however expressed concern for those who remain unvaccinated, as they are more likely to experience severe symptoms.
Dr. Emmanuel urged the public to prioritize their health and the health of their community by getting vaccinated.
He reiterated the importance of advocating for the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine and reminded the public that their individual rights should not overshadow the well-being of others.
“Many believe they have the right to their lives and bodies but ones right end where another one begin” he said.
