Western Region battles spike in Mpox, maternal deaths as health officials reactivate emergency response

The Western Regional Health Directorate has reactivated its Public Health Emergency Response Team in a renewed effort to contain the spread of Mpox, even as the region grapples with a troubling surge in maternal deaths.

According to the Directorate, 25 maternal deaths were recorded between January and May 2025—marking a significant increase over the same period last year. The rise has been attributed to delayed antenatal care, referral bottlenecks, and poor road networks that hinder access to timely medical attention.

“Between January and May, we've recorded 25 maternal deaths; a worrisome increase compared to the same period last year. Key contributing factors include delayed hospital visits, challenges in referring patients from rural areas to better-equipped facilities, and poor road conditions,” warned Kwadwo Okyere Apenteng, Chief Pharmacist at the Directorate.

Speaking during the Western Regional Development Retreat, Mr. Apenteng also revealed that the region is currently the epicenter of Ghana’s Mpox outbreak, accounting for a staggering 71% of the country’s total cases. He said that out of 187 suspected Mpox cases reported in the region, 43 have been confirmed. The outbreak spans nine of the region’s 14 districts, with Tarkwa Nsuaem emerging as the most affected.

"As a directorate, we've reactivated the Public Health Emergency Response Team to coordinate daily activities. We're receiving updates from districts, managing cases, and conducting active surveillance. We've identified 187 cases and traced 246 contacts, whom we're monitoring for potential infection," he stated.

Meanwhile, Western Regional Minister Hon. Joseph Nelson has urged the Regional House of Chiefs to lend their voice to the call for urgent healthcare improvements, particularly the completion of renovations at the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital.

"The ongoing renovations at Effia Nkwanta Hospital have stalled, and we pray for their resumption. Completing this project is crucial, and we must advocate for its timely finish to meet our healthcare needs," he said.

The twin crises of rising Mpox cases and maternal deaths have heightened calls for improved healthcare infrastructure and stronger public health systems across the region. Health authorities say intensified surveillance, community outreach, and stakeholder advocacy will be key to averting further health emergencies.