COVID-19 spike at University of Ghana triggers national response measures

Ghana’s Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has confirmed a recent spike in COVID-19 cases, with the majority of infections traced to an outbreak on the University of Ghana, Legon campus.

The surge, driven primarily by the Omicron variant, has prompted swift containment measures by the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service.

Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, 1 July, the Minister revealed that 107 positive cases had been identified from 316 suspected samples. Thankfully, no hospitalisations or deaths have been reported so far.

“As of now, 316 suspected cases; 107 of those cases have been confirmed as COVID-19. Fortunately, no hospitalisations and no deaths,” Akandoh told lawmakers.

Legon Hall Week Events Blamed

The outbreak has been largely attributed to recent Hall Week celebrations held on the university campus, where large crowds gathered with little to no enforcement of safety protocols.

“Mr. Speaker, 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,” the Minister explained.
“These events brought large crowds together, with little use of face masks or distancing.”

Targeted Response and Containment

In response, the Ministry of Health has launched a multi-layered containment plan. A national response team has been deployed to coordinate efforts with university authorities, municipal health officials, and key public health institutions.

The Minister disclosed that emergency meetings have been held with the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, leadership of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, and the School of Public Health to assess the situation and implement rapid response strategies.

Key Measures Taken

• Suspension of all upcoming Hall Week activities at the University of Ghana.

• Nationwide alerts sent to health facilities to heighten surveillance and readiness.

• A campus-wide public education campaign rolled out via posters, student leadership channels, and campus radio to reinforce COVID-19 protocols.

Public Advised to Remain Vigilant

Akandoh also used the opportunity to caution the public against complacency.

“Avoid gathering if you are sick,” he advised.

“Continue observing preventive measures such as proper hand hygiene, wearing face masks in crowded areas, and getting vaccinated—especially those due for booster shots.”

The Ministry says it will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as more data emerges. Although the outbreak remains largely confined to the university, authorities stress that community-wide vigilance remains crucial to preventing further spread.