The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has reiterated that the Covid-19 vaccines are safe and efficacious in helping contain the pandemic in Ghana.
A statement issued by the GMA further stated that “while vaccines are generally safe and effective, persons who take the vaccines may suffer some side effects as it may be the case with already existing vaccines that have been used for decades”.
It said ” the GMA fully supports the COVID-19 vaccination roll out and affirms that aside people who are excluded for medical reasons, every person living in Ghana should be encouraged to get vaccinated.
While the government has the power to institute a vaccine mandate (as enshrined in the Public Health Act), the GMA is however of the considered opinion that vaccine mandates should only be issued as a last resort owing to the ethical, legal and practical challenges it may pose. GMA is also unaware of any Executive Instrument that has been promulgated given legal backing for any such vaccine mandate.”
Meanwhile, the GMA has advised the Ghana Health Service to partner with Media Houses, National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Religious Bodies, Traditional Authorities, etc. to ramp up public education on the need for COVID-19 vaccinations especially in local languages.
