Ghana confirms two new Mpox cases – Prof. Kaba Akoryea urges public vigilance

Ghana has recorded two additional confirmed cases of Mpox, bringing the total number of infections to four, according to Professor Samuel Kaba Akoryea, Acting Director General of the Ghana Health Service.

Speaking in an official update following the Ministry of Health’s earlier announcement on May 15, Prof. Kaba revealed that the new cases were detected in the Greater Accra and Western Regions.

He confirmed that the National Public Health and Reference Laboratory (NPHRL) diagnosed the cases on May 18.

“The respective Regional Health Directorates have activated all necessary public health measures, including contact tracing, to prevent further transmission,” Prof. Kaba stated.

“Preliminary investigations show that the two latest cases have no epidemiological link with the previously reported infections.”

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease transmitted through close contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials.

Common symptoms include skin rashes, fever, headaches, muscle pain, backaches, swollen lymph nodes, and general fatigue.

Prof. Kaba Akoryea urged the public to remain alert and follow preventive measures.

“We are calling on Ghanaians to practice regular hand hygiene, avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms such as rashes, and report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility promptly,” he said.

He also appealed to media houses across the country to support the national effort by intensifying public education and dispelling misinformation about the disease.

Reassuring the public, Prof. Kaba emphasized the government’s preparedness.

“The Government of Ghana remains committed to protecting public health. We are drawing on our experience in handling similar outbreaks to ensure swift and effective containment of the virus.”

Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with updates to be provided as necessary.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith