COVID-19 Surge at Legon Linked to Hall Week Festivities
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has confirmed that a recent spike in COVID-19 cases at the University of Ghana has been linked to the institution’s Hall Week celebrations. Addressing Parliament on July 1, 2025, he said the festivities—characterised by large gatherings with minimal safety precautions—served as the key catalyst for the outbreak.
A total of 316 suspected cases were reported, with 107 confirmed, all linked to the Omicron sub-variant. Fortunately, there have been no hospitalisations or deaths, and all affected individuals are recovering well. Mr Akandoh praised the country’s robust disease surveillance system, which swiftly detected the rise in infections, confirmed by the Noguchi Memorial Institute.
While reassuring the public that the current strain is mild and manageable, Mr Akandoh called for adherence to safety protocols. He also noted the ministry’s efforts to secure vaccines for vulnerable groups, provide treatments like Paxlovid, and maintain high vigilance amid rising seasonal flu and cholera reports.
In response, the University has suspended further Hall Week events and launched a health awareness campaign. The Ministry of Health has also dispatched teams, boosted support for campus health facilities, and activated the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre for emergency preparedness.
