Covid-19 cases surge at University of Ghana, government moves to secure vaccines
The government is stepping up efforts to control a sudden spike in COVID-19 cases at the University of Ghana, where over 100 infections have been confirmed. The Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, says the outbreak is linked to the Omicron sub-variant but assures that all cases are mild with no hospital admissions or deaths reported so far.
Speaking in Parliament, the minister revealed that 107 out of 316 suspected cases have tested positive. The infections have been traced to recent hall week celebrations on campus where large gatherings took place with little use of face masks or other safety measures. The surge has prompted immediate action, including public health campaigns across the university, increased testing and suspended social events to prevent further spread.
Despite the increase in cases, health officials say there is no reason to panic. The University of Ghana Health Services and the Ministry of Health are working closely to contain the outbreak, and students showing symptoms are being encouraged to seek testing and early care. The minister emphasized that Ghana’s disease surveillance system allowed for quick detection and response, helping keep the situation under control.
This outbreak comes during the rainy season, which also sees a rise in flu-like illnesses. The similarity in symptoms between seasonal flu and COVID-19 has made testing even more critical to ensure early detection and proper treatment.
While routine COVID-19 vaccinations have stopped, the government is taking steps to secure new vaccine supplies in case the need for broader immunization returns. Treatments such as Paxlovid are also available for high-risk individuals including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.
The minister for health visited health facilities on the University of Ghana campus to personally assess the response and reassure the public. He stated that hospitals are fully equipped and ready to handle more serious cases if they arise, and urged everyone to remain cautious and continue following basic hygiene protocols.
COVID-19 may not be dominating headlines anymore, but the health authorities insist it is still a public health concern. With early action and continued vigilance, they are confident the current outbreak can be brought under control quickly.
By: Linda Akite
About The Author
