Ghana confirms 2 new Mpox cases, total now 4

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed two new cases of Mpox, bringing the total number of confirmed infections in the country to four.

The cases, reported in the Greater Accra and Western Regions, were announced in a press release issued on Sunday, May 18.

According to the statement, the new infections were confirmed by the National Public Health and Reference Laboratory (NPHRL), and early investigations suggest that the two latest cases have no epidemiological link to the earlier ones.

The GHS noted that public health teams in the affected regions have swiftly activated containment measures, including contact tracing, to curb any potential spread.

Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is a viral disease transmitted through close contact with infected persons, animals, or contaminated materials. The illness typically presents with symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, low energy, and a distinctive rash.

Health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant by practising regular hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with individuals showing signs of infection, particularly rashes, and promptly reporting suspected cases to the nearest health facility.

The Ghana Health Service and the Ministry of Health are calling on media houses to support nationwide public education campaigns by disseminating accurate information on the disease.

“The Government of Ghana remains committed to safeguarding public health. Drawing on our experience in managing similar outbreaks, we will continue to implement appropriate measures to protect the health and well-being of all residents,” said Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Acting Director-General of the Ghana Health Service.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and timely updates as the situation evolves.