The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported a rise in Mpox (Monkeypox) cases, bringing the total number in the country to eight. This increase has sparked fresh concerns about the potential for local transmission.
In an interview with Channel One Television, Dr. Dennis Odai Laryea, Deputy Director of Surveillance at the GHS, revealed that the cases are primarily concentrated in the Greater Accra and Western regions, with four cases reported in each area.
Dr. Laryea explained that over 100 suspected cases have been monitored, with eight confirmed so far. “This is the purpose of our surveillance system—to detect and respond early,” he said.
The GHS has emphasized its vigilance across all 16 regions of the country, actively monitoring the situation.
The new cases bring the national total for 2025 to nine confirmed infections, which includes one isolated case earlier this year that was successfully contained.
Dr. Laryea also highlighted diagnostic challenges, noting that Mpox and chickenpox share similar symptoms. He stressed that laboratory testing is essential for an accurate diagnosis, as both diseases can appear similar to the untrained eye.
Mpox is a contagious viral disease spread through close contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated objects. Symptoms include rashes, fever, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, fatigue, and body aches.
In response to the outbreak, Dr. Laryea urged the public to practice good hygiene, avoid contact with individuals showing visible rashes, and report suspected cases to local health facilities.
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