Six hundred and nine people have contracted the novel coronavirus bringing Ghana's confirmed cases to 17,351.

About 12,994 people, representing 75% of the total case count, have recovered after contracting the virus.

Making the announcement during his 13th address to the nation on Covid-19 crisis, president Akufo-Addo said that the country currently has 4,245 active cases.

He added that 30 people are critically ill while the number of deaths stands at 112, constituting 0.6% of confirmed cases.

“Fellow Ghanaians, as I have stated before, one of the key objects of our fight against Covid-19 has been to save lives and reduce the number of deaths,” president Akufo-Addo stated.

He explained that the increase in deaths can be attributed to late reporting of cases stating that many people in the country are still not taking the coronavirus crisis serious.

“There should be no fear of stigmatisation or embarrassment with being diagnosed with Covid-19. So, please, when you begin to experience symptoms such as fever, persistent cough, bodily pains, loss of taste and smell, and difficulty in breathing, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility.”

President Akufo Addo said that patitents who need intensive care after contracting the virus do survive the virus when it is reported early.

He urged all Ghanaians to put their trust in the health care providers who after fighting intensely to help patients recover.