The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed two cases of Mpox in the Accra Metropolitan Area, prompting swift action to prevent the spread of the virus while assuring the public that there is no cause for panic.
Mpox is a viral disease transmitted through close contact with an infected person or animal or contaminated materials. Symptoms often include a rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, and fatigue.
In a press release issued on Thursday, May 15, the GHS stated that it is working closely with the Ministry of Health to implement containment measures, including contact tracing, community surveillance, and heightened public awareness campaigns.
“Upon confirmation of these two cases, the Ghana Health Service has immediately initiated contact tracing efforts to identify individuals who may have come into contact with the confirmed cases. These contacts will be monitored for symptoms and provided with appropriate care and guidance,” the statement noted.
The health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, and report suspected symptoms to the nearest health facility.
They also stressed the importance of avoiding close contact with anyone showing signs of the illness, particularly visible rashes.
“The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service wish to reassure the general public that there is no cause for widespread alarm. Ghana’s public health system remains vigilant, and established protocols for the detection, management, and control of infectious diseases are being rigorously followed,” the GHS stated.
To boost public education, health officials are ramping up awareness campaigns across the country to ensure people are informed about how the disease spreads and how to protect themselves.
Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Acting Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, signed the release, reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health.
“We have the capacity and the expertise to manage this situation and prevent a larger outbreak,” he assured.
