As a result of the escalating cases of the dreaded novel coronavirus disease in China, the Government of Ghana through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has cautioned the public to refrain from travelling to the Asian country unless it is essential.
A travel alert issued on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, reminds Ghanaians to take the necessary precautions when travelling to China as a result of the hike in Covid-19 cases.
With effect from Friday, 6 January 2023, all persons travelling from China to Ghana will have to produce a 48-hour negative PCR test and undergo mandatory antigen testing at a point of entry free of charge until further notice.
Ghana is not the only country to have introduced tough measures to avoid another outbreak, many nations, including Australia, France, India, Israel, Italy, Morocco, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States, have announced mandatory covid tests for Chinese visitors in recent days.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has amended its Covid-19 guidelines at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).
All persons travelling from China will be required to submit a valid negative Covid-19 PCR test result 48 hours prior to departure from the originating country.
“In addition, upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport, such passengers will be subject to undertake obligatory Covid-19 testing at no cost.”
Passengers travelling from countries other than China must produce a valid negative Covid-19 PCR test result 48 hours prior to departure from the source country if they are partially or completely vaccinated.
They will also be subjected to free required testing.
“In addition to the foregoing, travellers may be chosen at random and administered a test upon arrival.”
Airlines have also been discouraged from transporting Chinese passengers who have not been properly immunised and do not have a genuine negative Covid-19 PCT test result.
Airlines that violate this will be fined $3,500.
By: Bernard Ralph Adams | Metrotvonline.com | Ghana
