- Ghana confirms 2nd Mpox case.
- Health authorities monitor and contain spread.
- Public urged to report symptoms promptly.
- Ghana collaborates with WHO for preparedness.
Ghana has confirmed its second case of Mpox, also known as Monkeypox, following the diagnosis of a 15-year-old boy in September. The latest case is the mother of the boy, and health officials are closely monitoring both cases to prevent further spread.
Dr. Dennis Laryea, Deputy Director of Disease Surveillance at the Ghana Health Service, has assured the public that health authorities are taking necessary precautions to contain the virus. Mpox is a viral disease that spreads through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
To combat the spread of Mpox, the Ghana Health Service has intensified public awareness campaigns and is working with local health facilities to ensure preparedness in managing potential cases. Additional resources have been mobilized to monitor other contacts of the confirmed cases, particularly in the affected communities.
Mpox is not new to Ghana, as the country reported eight cases in 2023. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) noted that African countries are still reporting about 2,500 Mpox cases weekly, with nearly 95% coming from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed the first in vitro Mpox test for emergency use. The Alinity mpox test, made by Abbott, is a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test that can detect clade 1 and 2 Mpox virus from lesion swabs.
Ghana’s health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, adhere to hygiene protocols, and report any suspected symptoms to healthcare providers promptly. This is crucial in preventing further spread and ensuring early treatment.
Mpox vaccination campaigns have begun in some African countries, including Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Nigeria is also expected to start its vaccination campaign soon.
The Ghana Health Service is working closely with international partners, including the WHO, to contain the spread of Mpox. The public is advised to take precautions and report any suspected cases immediately.
Health officials are concerned about the spread of Mpox, especially among healthcare workers. In Rwanda, over 70% of confirmed Marburg virus disease cases were healthcare workers.
Ghana’s health authorities are taking proactive measures to contain the spread of Mpox. The public is urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent further spread.
