Ghana confirms two Mpox cases in Accra 

By Linda Naa Deide Aryeetey  

Accra, May 16, GNA – The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed two cases of Mpox in the Accra Metropolitan Area of the Greater Accra Region. 

In a press release issued in Accra on Thursday, the GHS said it was working closely with the Health Ministry to ensure that all necessary public health measures were implemented to contain and prevent further spread of the viral disease. 

The release, signed by Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, the Director General of GHS, said there was no cause for widespread alarm as Ghana’s public health system remained vigilant, with existing protocols for detecting, managing, and controlling infectious diseases being rigorously followed. 

Mpox, a virus transmitted disease through close contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials, presents symptoms such as rash, fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. 

In response to the confirmed cases, the GHS has launched contact tracing efforts to identify and monitor individuals who may have been exposed.  

Those contacts were being observed for symptoms and would receive appropriate care and guidance, the release said.    

“Surveillance in health facilities and communities has also been heightened to detect and investigate any additional suspected cases promptly,” it said.  

The release said public awareness campaigns were being intensified to educate citizens on the symptoms and transmission of Mpox, as well as prevention strategies. 

“The GHS urges the public to maintain good hygiene, avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, and report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility,” it said.  

The Government was fully committed to protecting the health and well-being of all citizens.  

“We have the capacity and expertise to manage this situation and prevent a larger outbreak,” it said. 

The GHS assured the public that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed. 

GNA 

ABD