Ghana’s mission in China has advised Ghanaians planning to travel to the Asian country to consider postponing their trips as the death toll from the deadly coronavirus outbreak in China rises to 25.

Ghana’s Deputy Ambassador to China, Dr Charles Dwamena said if the trip is an emergency one, then travelers should take the necessary precautions to protect themselves.

The Deputy Ambassador said there are about 300 Ghanaians living in the city of Wuhan where the virus was first found but no Ghanaians have been reported to have contracted the ailment.

Public transport services in ten cities near Wuhan, where the infection started have all been suspended.

Back at home, the Health Ministry said it has begun implementing measures to prevent the outbreak and spread of a new virus that first broke out in China.

In a statement Tuesday, the Health Ministry said it has enhanced surveillance at all entry points in Ghana, especially the Kotoka International Airport.

To protect oneself from the virus, the ministry has advised, among others, regular washing of hands with soap and water and hand rubbing with alcohol where available.

“If contact with a sick person or potentially infected surfaces or objects occur, those involved must not touch their eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands,” the ministry said.