Coronavirus outbreak: Black Maidens wear protective masks for Liberia trip

On Thursday, February 27, the first case of coronavirus was recorded in sub-Saharan Africa.

Nigeria, West Africa’s most populated country and biggest economy confirmed that an Italian has been diagnosed with the virus and was receiving treatment in a confined area.

The story has not only shaken Nigeria but also the sub-region with Ghanaians alarmed by the situation due to the relationship with the country.

In the sporting world, the outbreak of the virus that has been code-named Covid-19 has affected the hosting of some matches and competitions.

In Italy which is Europe’s hardest-hit country, some Serie A matches were called off while others were played behind closed doors due to fear of the spread of the virus.

A cycling competition known as the UAE Tour has been cancelled after two cyclists tested positive of the virus.

It is in this light that the government is taking no chances with the protection of citizens from the deadly virus which first broke out in the Chinese province of Wuhan.

As the national under-17 female national team travel to Liberia for the leg of their World Cup qualifier against Liberia, the Ministry through the GFA purchased protective masks for players, technical team members and other officials.

The players and officials upon arrival at the Kotoko International Airport ahead of their trip were handed the masks and encouraged to wear them.

Officials of the team say the players have been sensitized on the virus and have also been psyched not to be afraid.

The chairman of the team’s management committee, Nana Oduro Sarfo explained that the mask-wearing is one of the precautionary measures taken to protect the players and officials from being infected.