BY Daniel Bampoe
The University of Ghana has reported a total of 141 COVID-19 cases, prompting authorities to intensify collaboration to contain the spread.
According to Dr. Franklyn Asiedu Bekoe, Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), all cases are mild, with no hospital admissions or deaths recorded.
Background
The outbreak is believed to have been fueled by recent Hall Week celebrations, which drew large crowds with little adherence to COVID-19 safety protocols.
In response, the University’s Health Services Directorate has suspended all social gatherings on campus and reactivated its COVID-19 Response Protocols.
The GHS is working closely with the University to sensitize the community on observing safety protocols ¹ ².
Preventive Measures
To reduce the risk of infection and spread, the University has advised staff, students, and visitors to:
– Wear Face Masks: Properly wear face masks, especially in enclosed or crowded spaces
– Maintain Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap under running water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers
– Physical Distancing: Maintain a physical distance of at least one meter where possible
– Avoid Large Gatherings: Avoid large gatherings unless absolutely necessary
– Good Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in offices, lecture halls, and meeting rooms
– Seek Medical Attention: Stay at home if experiencing flu-like symptoms and seek prompt medical attention
GHS Response
The GHS has emphasized that COVID-19 has become an endemic condition, requiring individuals to learn to live with the disease while maintaining safety protocols.
Dr. Bekoe encourages early reporting to health facilities when symptoms appear, stating, “We now have about 141 cases and all are mild. COVID-19 has come to stay, so we need to learn to live with the disease”.
Government Support
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has assured Ghanaians that the government is prepared to manage the situation expeditiously.
Additional steps underway include supporting the University’s health facilities with more resources and preparing the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre to handle severe cases.
Hon. Mintah Akandoh
