Deputy Registrar at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Dr. Daniel Norris Bekoe, says that the University is capable of producing a vaccine for the novel coronavirus.
He says that for the vaccines to be produced, scientists at the KNUST would need the fluid samples of persons who have recovered from the virus.
Dr. Bekoe intimated that after the University successfully manufactured a coronavirus test kit, which is capable of running sample tests within 20mintures, their next focus is busying themselves with a vaccine.
Speaking on Accra-based Peace FM, Dr. Bekoe explained that:
“If we are able to treat those who are infected with the virus, then we gradually driving the virus away. The good news is that, some countries like India are producing vaccines. In order to produce a vaccine, you need a serum or samples of fluid or of people who’s immune system were able to fight the coronavirus”
Dr. Bekoe further urged the government increase efforts in sensitizing Ghanaians concerning the virus in local languages.
Already, the Ministry of Information says that it has collaborated with traditional leaders and the Ghana Institute of Languages in that regard.
But Dr. Bekoe believes that more can still be done.
I think we still have a lot do despite whatever work we have done. We need to strengthen the education on the virus. We should translate COVID-19 education to local languages. That will help us curb the spread of the virus in the country.
Meanwhile, engineers at the Kumasi-based University are at an advanced stage of manufacturing a ventilator to be used in health facilities in the country.
Ghana, as of April 30, 2020, has confirmed 2,079 cases of the coronavirus.
212 recoveries have been recorded with 17 persons succumbing to the virus.
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Story by: Princeton Kwabena Wiredu | www.universnewsroom.com