The Medical Director of the Eastern Regional Hospital, Dr Arko Akoto-Ampaw, has urged Ghanaians to ignore conspiracy theories associated with the COVID-19 vaccines and rather get themselves vaccinated to protect themselves from the virus.

According to him, the issue of hesitancy to taking the vaccines was becoming a major problem as majority of citizens were refusing to take the vaccines even though many were available.

“We need to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by not just sticking to the protocols but to also take the vaccines so that we will all be protected. However, some people’s reluctant attitude towards the taking of vaccines is becoming worrying and we need to encourage them to do so for the benefit of all,” he said.

Dr Akoto-Ampaw made these statements in an exclusive interview after a meeting held by the hospital to review its 2021 Annual Year Performance yesterday.

He said the vaccines, which were brought into the country for use, have been well investigated, approved and certified by the Food and Drugs Authority and hence assured the citizenry of its safety.

“We anticipate that when you go for the jab of vaccines, you will get some form of reactions but it is normal just like any other vaccines we have used for the past years.

He added, “Campaign to get rid of the vaccines is a big thing all over the world. However, those of us who have taken the vaccines have not witnessed any problems.”

Dr Akoto-Ampaw revealed that majority of people who came to the COVID-19 treatment centres unvaccinated were people with severe illness and diseases.

“I advise that many Ghanaians, especially those in the high risk groups to go for the vaccines so that together we will abide by the safety protocols as well to keep us protected from COVID-19,” he said.

He added that last year the hospital chalked some successes in the area of COVID-19 treatment revealing that the centre became a national centre of excellence for the management of severe to critically ill patients, piped medical oxygen were delivered to patients beds, among others.

He said the hospital was dedicated to giving off their best to take care of COVID-19 patients and to help curb the spread of the virus.