GHS Confirms Local COVID-19 Outbreak at University of Ghana

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed a localized spike in COVID-19 cases at the University of Ghana, prompting renewed calls for public vigilance and adherence to preventive health measures.

In a statement released on Wednesday, June 26, the GHS noted that the outbreak is currently confined to the university campus and involves only mild cases with no hospitalizations. The service is working closely with university authorities to manage and contain the situation.

Although the World Health Organization no longer classifies COVID-19 as a global public health emergency, the GHS reiterated that the virus remains a concern, with sporadic and seasonal outbreaks expected to continue worldwide.

“An uptick in COVID-19 cases has recently been observed, currently limited to the University of Ghana community,” the statement said, adding that joint efforts with the university are underway to assess and strengthen response strategies.

As part of ongoing nationwide surveillance, the GHS, in collaboration with the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), continues to monitor influenza and COVID-19 trends across all 16 regions.

Public Health Advisory: Stay Safe, Stay Alert

To help curb the spread, the GHS is urging the public to:

• Practice social distancing

• Wear face masks, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces

• Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer

• Stay home if feeling unwell

• Avoid large gatherings

• Seek medical care if symptoms like fever, cough, or loss of smell/taste arise

Despite the outbreak being limited in scope, the GHS stressed that now is not the time for complacency. The Ministry of Health assures the University of Ghana community and the broader public that comprehensive measures are in place to contain the spread and protect public health.