Minister Assures No Threat from UG COVID-19 Outbreak
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh announced on July 1, 2025, that a COVID-19 outbreak at the University of Ghana (UG) is under control. The outbreak, with 107 confirmed cases, was linked to hall week celebrations, as reported by 3News. No deaths or hospitalizations have occurred.
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) identified 316 suspected cases, with 107 testing positive for the Omicron variant via Noguchi Memorial Institute tests. All cases are mild and managed in self-isolation. The outbreak stemmed from crowded student events where safety rules, like mask-wearing, were ignored.
A national response team is supporting UG with PPEs, test kits, and oxygen therapy. Legon Hospital has extra resources, and the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre is ready if needed. The university has halted student-led social events to stop the virus from spreading further.
Akandoh praised Ghana’s strong surveillance system and urged students to follow safety guidelines, like handwashing and masking in crowds. No community spread has been reported outside UG, and daily monitoring continues to keep the situation in check.
The minister called for calm, noting Ghana’s experience with past outbreaks. The GHS is promoting vaccinations and awareness to prevent further cases, ensuring the university and surrounding areas remain safe while normal activities resume with caution.