Mpox: Ghana records 19 cases as GHS confirms 10 new infections

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed 10 new cases of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), bringing the total number of recorded infections in the country to 19.

According to the GHS, five of the newly identified patients are currently hospitalized and receiving treatment. No fatalities have been recorded so far.

Earlier, GHS had reported eight confirmed cases, raising public health concerns as officials ramp up efforts to contain the viral outbreak.

The Deputy Director of Surveillance at GHS, Dr. Dennis Odai Laryea, revealed in an interview on Channel One TV that the confirmed cases were detected in the Greater Accra and Western Regions, with four cases reported in each.

He emphasized that the surveillance system is key to identifying and responding swiftly to suspected cases.

In response to the outbreak, the GHS has increased monitoring at all entry points into the country amid fears of potential undetected community spread.

Health officials are particularly concerned because two of the latest confirmed cases have no known connection to earlier infections.

In a statement, GHS Director-General Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea underscored the urgency of the situation and outlined a series of containment measures.

These include nationwide public education campaigns, additional training for health workers, and the reinforcement of infection prevention protocols such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

The GHS is urging the public to remain vigilant by practicing frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with individuals displaying flu-like symptoms or unexplained rashes, and promptly reporting suspected cases to health facilities.

Mpox is a contagious viral illness transmitted through close contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated surfaces.

Common symptoms include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches.