The Western North Regional Security Council (RESEC) has issued strict directives to its people as Covid-19 cases jump from 1 to 50 within two weeks.

In a statement outlining the new directives and protocols, the Council said the measures are to help combat the rapid spread of the virus in the Region.

On April 22, the Western North Region confirmed its first case of the novel coronavirus since the first two cases were reported in Ghana in March.

The case was recorded in the Bibiani-Anwhiaso-Bekwai distrct of the Region.

The Regional Health Directorate subsequently intensified routine surveillance in there.

Confirming the increase to Adom News’ Boah Augustine, the Western North Deputy Regional Minister, Alex Djornubuah Tetteh said 110 samples were obtained through contact tracing out of which 49 came back positive.

He said this facilitated the emergency meeting by RESEC where the new directives were put together.

While, wearing of face masks has now been made compulsory, pubs and drinking spots in the region have been banned from operating until further notice.

Also, special market days have been suspended and tricycle operators are not allowed to have more than one passenger on board.

RESEC is also urging the police and the GPRTU in the region to liase with commercial drivers to ensure that all passengers wear face masks before boarding any vehicle.

To educate and sensitize the people, MMDAs have been encouraged to embark on campaigns aimed at encouraging the use of face masks and drive home the importance of social distancing.

The Deputy Regional Minister who is also the Member of Parliament for Sefwi Akontombra constituency said all measures are to take effect from today, May 6.

He said residents who fail to comply with these directives will be punished.