The Minister of Health has directed all food vendors, commercial vehicle drivers and other selected group of individuals to always wear face mask as part of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

In a statement Saturday, the Minister also directed the use of face mask in all public places where social distancing will be difficult.

“The Minister of Health hereby directs the use of face masks in all public places where it may be difficult to maintain social distancing. The general public is encouraged to wear mask or face covering when going out whether sick or not or attending to a sick person. Incorrect use of face mask carries a high risk of infection,” the directive said.

It added: “The following groups or persons are required at all times to wear masks: Food vendors and sellers at markets, commercial vehicle drivers and attendants, commuters on public transports, persons in public and commercial centres, facilities and buildings including but not limited to offices, bars, workshops, restaurants, sports arenas and spas, salons, shopping malls, churches, clinics and hospitals and all other facilities accessible to the public whether privately or publicly owned”.

Meanwhile, COVID-19 cases in Ghana have now hit 1,279, the Ghana Health Service has announced.

According to the GHS, another person has died bringing the total number of deaths to 10 while 123 people have now recovered from the killer virus.

Greater Accra Region still leads the number of cases recording 1,089, Ashanti Region – 69, Eastern Region – 56, Northern Region – 13, Oti Region – 13, Central Region – 9, Volta Region – 10, Upper West Region – 8, North East Region – 2, Western North Region – 1 and Western Region – 1.