Health authorities in Ghana have confirmed the detection of a new COVID-19 variant, codenamed Nimbus, sparking immediate public health concerns and prompting swift preventive actions across the country. The University of Ghana, Legon, has become the first major institution to respond, suspending all open campus activities with immediate effect.
According to the Ghana Health Service (GHS), the Nimbus variant was identified through routine genomic sequencing and is believed to have higher transmissibility rates than previous strains. Though investigations are ongoing, initial symptoms among affected individuals mirror earlier variants but with reports of more rapid onset and clustered outbreaks in public spaces.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the University of Ghana announced a temporary halt to all non-essential gatherings, including outdoor lectures, public seminars, sporting events, and student association programs. The decision, the university says, is aimed at protecting students, staff, and the broader community from a potential outbreak.
“The health and safety of our university community is paramount,” the statement read. “All in-person open-air events are suspended until further notice, and we encourage all members to adhere strictly to COVID-19 safety protocols.”
The Ministry of Health has issued an advisory encouraging the public to wear masks in crowded areas, maintain social distancing, and seek immediate testing if symptoms appear. Vaccination efforts are also being scaled up in high-risk zones, particularly around Accra and Kumasi.
The government is expected to hold an emergency briefing later this week to outline further measures to curb the spread of the Nimbus variant. Meanwhile, citizens are urged to remain calm, stay informed, and comply with public health guidelines.
source:nsemgh.com
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