GHS confirms 26 new Mpox cases; total infections rise to 45  

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported 26 new confirmed cases of Mpox, pushing the country’s total case count to 45.

According to the latest update, two individuals are currently receiving treatment in hospital, and no deaths have been recorded so far.

Health officials say they are closely monitoring the situation across all 16 regions through a nationwide surveillance system. Regional health directorates have already activated emergency response protocols, including contact tracing, to contain the spread.

The GHS is working in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to roll out additional containment measures.

“We have the capacity and expertise to manage this situation and prevent a larger outbreak,” the Service said in a statement, assuring the public of its preparedness.

Director-General of the GHS, Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, reaffirmed the system’s readiness to detect, manage, and control infectious disease outbreaks. He urged the public to stay calm but alert, and to practice good hygiene.

Residents have been advised to avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms, report suspected cases to the nearest health facility, and observe basic health protocols such as regular handwashing and proper mask use.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease transmitted through close contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated materials. Common symptoms include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, muscle pain, and backaches.

The GHS also recommends covering lesions when around others, avoiding shared items, disinfecting common areas, and using saltwater rinses for mouth sores to reduce transmission risks.

In 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern due to the rapid spread of a new variant across the continent. Over 17,000 suspected cases and 517 deaths were recorded in Africa last year, according to the Africa CDC.

WHO has since approved the first Mpox vaccine to boost prevention efforts, especially in Africa, where more than 20,000 people have been infected by the latest outbreak.

The Ghana Health Service continues to encourage vigilance and public cooperation to keep the situation under control.