Ghana has confirmed its first death from Mpox, amidst a sharp rise in new infections in the West African country. According to health authorities, 23 new cases have been confirmed in the past week, bringing the total number of infections to 257 since the virus was first detected in June 2022. This marks the highest weekly increase since the outbreak began and the first fatality recorded in the country.
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh assured that the situation is under control, emphasizing the importance of early detection and responsible behavior. “The key to limiting this outbreak is early detection and responsible behaviour,” Akandoh said. Mpox, a viral infection related to smallpox, causes fever, body aches, and distinct skin lesions, and can be deadly. The disease spreads through close physical contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials.
The Ghanaian government agency responsible for public health is expected to receive vaccines from the World Health Organization this week. Franklyn Asiedu-Bekoe, a director with the service, stated, “Our at-risk populations have already been identified, and we are ready to roll out vaccination as soon as doses arrive.” The at-risk populations include children, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
The outbreak in Ghana mirrors a broader trend across West Africa, where health officials are struggling to contain the disease. Thousands of cases have been recorded this year in the region, with Sierra Leone registering a total of 3,350 cases, including 16 deaths, from January to late May this year. The Africa CDC figures released last week show over 47,000 confirmed cases and 221 deaths reported across the continent since January last year, with at least 27,000 of those cases recorded this year alone.
WHO Director Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus recently stated that the virus remains an international health emergency amid the rise in West African cases. The Ghana Health Service is working to contain the outbreak through enhanced surveillance, contact tracing, and public education. The public is urged to report promptly to the nearest health facility if any symptoms of Mpox are suspected for necessary investigations and appropriate management.