Ghana stops issuing visas, passports in US to stop coronavirus spread

Ghana’s Embassy in the United States has indefinitely suspended the issuances of visas and passports as it moves to stem the spread of the deadly coronavirus that has killed thousands of people globally.

The suspension which takes effect from today March 17, affects both mailed and in-person services.

“All mails received prior to the effective date will be processed and dispatched to applicants,” a statement issued by the Head of Information and Public Affairs of the Embassy announced Monday.

It said the Embassy in consultation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has also suspended all official travels and public engagements.

The Embassy explained that precautionary measures has become necessary due to the increase and rapid spread of the coronavirus in the United States and globally.

The coronavirus pandemic which originated in China late last year has infected more than 182,400 people and killed over 7,100 globally.

More than 4,400 cases have been recorded in the United States with at least 86 fatalities while Ghana has now recorded a total of six imported cases as of Sunday, March 14.

Health officials say all the six patients who have since been quarantined, are in stable condition.



Contact tracing has begun since March 12 when the first two cases in the country were recorded.

Government has announced what some believe to be bold measures, including travel bans and closure of all schools in the country as well as ban of social gatherings to stem the spread of the virus.

Businesses and other workplaces, however, continue to operate but have been directed to observe prescribed social distancing between patrons and staff.

Establishments, such as supermarkets, shopping malls, restaurants, night clubs, hotels and drinking spots, have also been advised by government to observe enhanced hygiene procedures by providing, amongst others, hand sanitizers, running water and soap for washing of hands.