Health authorities have  confirmed two cases of Mpox in Accra, triggering a targeted response aimed at containing the virus and preventing broader transmission.

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) announced Thursday that the cases were detected within the Accra Metropolitan Area. Officials emphasized that while the situation is being closely monitored, there is no immediate cause for public alarm.

Mpox, a viral disease formerly known as monkeypox, is spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, as well as through exposure to contaminated materials. The illness typically presents with fever, fatigue, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash.

Following confirmation of the cases, the GHS has mobilized containment protocols in coordination with the Ministry of Health. These include contact tracing, community-level surveillance, and public awareness efforts.

“Upon confirmation of these two cases, the Ghana Health Service has immediately initiated contact tracing efforts to identify individuals who may have come into contact with the confirmed cases,” the GHS said in a statement. “These contacts will be monitored for symptoms and provided with appropriate care and guidance.”

The public is being urged to observe strict hygiene practices and to report any symptoms associated with Mpox to local health facilities. Authorities also advised avoiding close physical contact with individuals displaying visible rashes or other signs of illness.

To bolster its response, the GHS is expanding nationwide awareness campaigns aimed at educating communities about Mpox transmission and prevention.

“We have the capacity and the expertise to manage this situation and prevent a larger outbreak,” said Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Acting Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, who signed the official statement. “Ghana’s public health infrastructure remains alert and prepared to respond decisively.”

Despite the emergence of the cases, officials underscored the country’s readiness, citing existing protocols for infectious disease management as robust and fully operational.

The situation remains under surveillance.

Source:TheDotNews