“Covid Fatigue” of the urban poor in Ghana?

Abstract

Until the majority is vaccinated, the most effective measures to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 are to keep a safe distance from other people, wear a facemask and wash hands regularly. In order to do so, people must know the guidelines and have the means and will to follow them. In Accra, Ghana, a survey finds that six months into the pandemic, the urban poor are experiencing “Covid Fatigue”, reporting less knowledge about the virus and lower observance of social distancing measures. However, hygienic behavior has improved over time, in part because of government policies. Most respondents support government actions and emphasize the importance of government to enforce social distancing. It will be important for citizens in Ghana to overcome the “Covid Fatigue” and continue to follow effective protective measures in order to curb contagion in 2021.