By Baba Mohammed Issahak/Hamza Lansah Lolly
The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service have confirmed two new cases of Mpox, bringing the country’s total to four as of today, May 18.
According to a press release issued by the Ministry, the newly recorded cases were detected in the Greater Accra and Western Regions. Laboratory tests conducted at the National Public Health and Reference Laboratory (NPHRL) confirmed the infections.
Health officials say the two cases are not linked to previously reported infections, suggesting independent transmission sources. “Preliminary assessments indicate that these newly confirmed cases have no epidemiological link to the earlier reported cases,” the statement read.
According to the statement, in response to the situation, the respective Regional Health Directorates have activated emergency public health measures, including contact tracing, to contain the spread.
Mpox is a viral disease that spreads through close contact with an infected person, animal, or contaminated objects. Symptoms typically include fever, headaches, rashes, muscle pain, and swollen lymph nodes.
The Health Ministry is urging the public to remain vigilant and take preventive steps such as frequent handwashing, avoiding contact with individuals showing symptoms, and promptly reporting suspected cases to nearby health facilities.
The press statement release, signed by Acting Director General Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, also called on the media to support public education efforts. “We encourage all media houses to use their platforms to raise awareness and share accurate information about Mpox,” he stated.
The Ministry assured Ghanaians of its commitment to managing the outbreak effectively, citing previous experience in handling similar public health threats.
