Minister reassures public over COVID-19 outbreak at University of Ghana
The Minister for Health, Mr Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has provided reassurance to Ghanaians regarding the recent outbreak of COVID-19 on the University of Ghana campus. He urged the public not to panic, stating that the situation is under control.
Addressing Parliament, Mr Akandoh disclosed that there have been 316 suspected cases and 107 confirmed cases of the Omicron variant on campus. Despite the high number of cases, there have been no hospitalisations or deaths reported.
“While the Omicron variant spreads quickly, it is mostly mild. We have the necessary tools and knowledge to manage it effectively,” the Minister assured lawmakers.
The outbreak, which was identified through Ghana’s influenza surveillance system and confirmed by the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, has been contained within the university community. Investigations revealed that the surge in cases was linked to recent Hall Week celebrations where COVID-19 safety protocols were not strictly followed.
To address the situation, the Ministry of Health has collaborated with the university’s Health Directorate, the School of Public Health, and Noguchi to carry out awareness campaigns. These efforts include widespread educational initiatives on campus using posters, student leaders, and campus radio to promote compliance with safety measures.
Mr Akandoh emphasized the government’s support in providing vaccines, test kits, PPEs, and treatment supplies to manage the outbreak. He also mentioned that the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre is prepared to respond if the situation escalates.
Update on MPOX
The Health Minister also provided an update on MPOX, confirming 133 cases across various regions as of June 29. Fortunately, no deaths or hospitalizations have been reported, and the majority of patients have recovered.
During the parliamentary session, Essikado-Ketan MP, Hon. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, called for increased public education on mask usage and hand hygiene, particularly in educational institutions.
Despite the recent uptick in infections, Mr Akandoh reminded Parliament that COVID-19 is no longer classified as a global emergency. He assured that the government is well-prepared to handle any future outbreaks swiftly, highlighting the strength of the nation’s disease surveillance system.
