Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has confirmed a sudden spike in COVID-19 infections concentrated at the University of Ghana, Legon with a total of 107 cases confirmed out of 316 suspected following a sharp outbreak linked to recent student festivities.
The infections, which are primarily driven by the Omicron variant, have so far not resulted in hospitalisations or deaths, the Minister said when he addressed Parliament on Tuesday.
“This spike is a reminder that COVID-19 remains a public health threat. We urge everyone to remain vigilant,” Mr Akandoh said.
Hall week celebrations trigger spike
The Minister attributed the outbreak to mass gatherings during recent Hall Week celebrations on the University of Ghana campus, which he said took place with little adherence to COVID-19 protocols.
“After sending in a team to investigate, we found a few key issues that fuelled the spread. The most significant factor was the recent Hall Week celebrations held at the University. These events brought large crowds together, with little use of face masks or distancing,” Mr Akandoh stated.
Following the findings, the Ministry of Health deployed a national COVID-19 response team to the campus to work with university and municipal health officials.
Testing, surveillance, and campus response
Mr Akandoh revealed that a coordinated response has since been launched, involving the Ghana Health Service, the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, and the School of Public Health.
This includes enhanced testing, active surveillance, and public education campaigns to contain the spread of the virus on campus.
As part of containment efforts, all hall week activities at the university have been suspended indefinitely.
Alerts have also been issued to health facilities nationwide to remain on high alert for potential cases, especially in schools.
Mass education and preventive measures
A comprehensive campus-wide public health education campaign is now underway.
It includes the distribution of posters, targeted messaging via campus radio, and engagement with student leaders to reinforce COVID-19 protocols.
The Minister urged the general public to recommit to basic preventive measures, including mask-wearing in crowded spaces, hand hygiene, and vaccination, especially for individuals due for booster shots.
“Avoid gatherings if you are sick,” Mr Akandoh cautioned, warning against complacency as infections show signs of resurgence.
No cause for panic, but vigilance needed
While assuring the public that the Ministry has the situation under control, Mr Akandoh said the outbreak serves as a timely reminder that COVID-19 remains active, particularly in environments of mass gathering and low adherence to safety protocols.
The Health Ministry will continue monitoring developments and update the public as necessary.
