Amid fear of the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19, Zoomlion Ghana Limited has undertaken a thorough disinfection of all the airports across the country.

The exercise, which was simultaneously carried out on Tuesday, covered the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) Greater Accra, Kumasi Airport, Ashanti and the Tamale Airport in the Northern Region.

The exercise formed part of an arrangement between the government and Zoomlion.

The waste management giant has been disinfecting the airports on a monthly basis to curb the spread of any COVID-19 tendencies, especially in light of the new Omicron variant.

Already Ghana has recorded some cases of the Omicron variant, all of which were detected at the KIA.

At the KIA, facilities disinfected included the departure and arrival halls, VIP lounge, Airport Clinic, restrooms, and open spaces among others.

Briefing the media on the sidelines of the exercise at the KIA, a Vector Control Officer at Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Mr King Jones Wonder, said the exercise was crucial in the country’s quest to curb the virus.

“We’re here today to disinfect the Kotoka International Airport, and we do this on a monthly basis… so it’s time to disinfect this place,” he indicated.

“We are doing this to curb the spread of especially the new variant of the COVID-19 called Omicron because it has been proven to spread faster than the previous ones,” he stated.

While pointing out that the national disinfection exercises against COVID-19 had greatly helped to check the spread of the disease, Mr Wonder reminded Ghanaians to continuously abide by the protocols.

He also assuaged the fears of both Ghanaians and foreigners coming into the country, stressing that the country’s airports were safe, adding that adequate measures had been put in place by the airport authorities to ensure that travellers were protected from the Omicron variant of the COVID-19.  

“The airport is safe for all the arrivals so we are urging travellers to put away any fears, and enjoy their stay in Ghana during and after the Christmas and New Year festivities,” he assured.

He further indicated that the chemical used for the exercise had no side effects and would not harm human beings.

According to Mr Wonder, COVID-19 was still in the country, hence cautioned Ghanaians against losing their guard.

“I entreat each and every Ghanaian and to all those entering the country to continue wearing nose masks, observe social distancing, wash their hands and take other precautions against the virus,” he urged.