The country has lost 18 more lives in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic bringing the death toll to 629.

In its latest update, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) disclosed that Ghana recorded 489 new recorded cases nationwide.

As of March 1, 2021, some 5,145 active cases were reported by the GHS, taking the total confirmed cases to 85,239.

24 patients are in critical condition while 72 other cases are severe.

Despite the surge in Covid-19, 79,465 Ghanaians are said to have recovered from the virus and have been discharged.

The government of Ghana after receiving 600,000 Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccines through the COVAX programme began the vaccination exercise to have frontline health workers and persons with underlying health conditions vaccinated.

President Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr Bawumia together with other state officials including former President John Mahama, Chief of Staff Frema Opare have so far been vaccinated.

Health Minister-designate Agyeman-Manu and Foreign Affairs Minister-designate Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey on behalf of the government received also 50,000 Covid-19 vaccines from the government of India.

According to Mrs Ayorkor Botchwey, the government is leaving no stone unturned to procure the needed vaccines and ensure the lives of all citizens are protected.

“Indeed, we are resolute in our determination and will utilize both bilateral and multilateral arrangements to attain this objective. I will thus encourage friends and partners of Ghana to continue rallying support for Government’s efforts,” she said.

However, Agyeman-Manu admonished Ghanaians to stay safe and follow all the guidelines and COVID safety protocols to guarantee their safety.