Mpox cases rise to 467

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed 21 new cases of Mpox, pushing the country’s cumulative case count to 467 since the outbreak began.

According to the latest situation report, the national death toll remains at one, with no new fatalities recorded in recent weeks.

It also indicated that there are currently no patients on admission, as most confirmed cases are being managed on an outpatient basis or through home isolation.

The GHS noted that all 16 regions have now reported cases of the viral disease, underscoring its rapid spread across the country.

This nationwide coverage has heightened public concern, with officials calling for strict adherence to preventive measures.

Mpox, which spreads primarily through close physical contact, has been observed to transmit within households and communities, making public health education and vigilance critical.

Symptoms include fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain and a characteristic rash, which often progresses from lesions to scabs.

While the GHS has assured the public that vaccines have been secured, the timelines for their arrival and rollout remain unclear.

The delay has fuelled calls from health experts and civil society for accelerated deployment, especially in high-burden regions.

Health officials are urging citizens to remain vigilant and prioritise good hygiene practices such as regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with suspected cases and seeking prompt medical care when symptoms develop.

“The rise in numbers is a reminder that Mpox remains a public health concern. Everyone must take personal responsibility to protect themselves and others,” a senior health official said in the report.