The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported eight new cases of monkeypox (Mpox), raising fresh concerns regarding the transmission of the viral disease throughout the nation.
Dr. Dennis Odai Laryea, a Consultant Public Health Physician and the Deputy Director of Surveillance at the GHS, revealed this information during an interview on Friday, May 23.
“At present, we have eight confirmed cases. In total, this year, we have recorded nine cases. Earlier in the year, there was one case that was swiftly contained. This ongoing outbreak, as of yesterday, has led to eight confirmed cases across two regions: Greater Accra and Western. Each region has reported four cases.”
He stated that the Ghana Health Service has examined over 100 suspected Mpox cases nationwide as part of its continuous surveillance activities. While all 16 regions have reported suspected infections, confirmed cases have only been documented in the Greater Accra and Western regions thus far.
“This highlights the importance of our surveillance system, which is designed to identify and address suspected cases prior to confirmation,” Dr. Laryea elaborated.
Mpox is a viral illness that transmits through close contact with an infected individual, animal, or contaminated items. Common symptoms include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, muscle aches, headaches, and overall fatigue.
In light of the outbreak, the GHS has urged the public to take preventive measures seriously. These measures include maintaining regular hand hygiene, avoiding physical contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms such as rashes, and promptly reporting any suspected cases to the nearest health facility.
Health authorities are currently on high alert and have enhanced public education and disease monitoring initiatives across all regions to prevent any potential spread.
