Ghana’s Mpox Situation: A Comprehensive Overview
Ghana, like many nations globally, has faced the challenge of managing the mpox virus, a zoonotic disease that can spread from animals to humans and also transmit between people. The Ghana Health Service (GHS), the nation’s primary healthcare institution, has been at the forefront of monitoring and responding to this public health concern. The recent update on June 16, 2025, confirmed seven new cases, elevating the cumulative total to 98 since the initial detection within the country. This highlights the ongoing presence of the virus and underscores the importance of sustained vigilance and effective public health measures.
Mpox typically presents with a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion. A distinguishing feature of the disease is the development of a rash that can progress through various stages, evolving from macules (flat lesions) to papules (raised lesions), vesicles (fluid-filled lesions), pustules (pus-filled lesions), and finally, scabs. The rash often appears on the face, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet, but can also affect other areas of the body. While the majority of individuals infected with mpox experience relatively mild symptoms and recover fully within a few weeks, severe complications can arise in some cases, particularly among individuals with weakened immune systems, underlying health conditions, or those in vulnerable groups such as young children and pregnant women.
The GHS has implemented multifaceted strategies to combat the spread of mpox, including proactive surveillance, laboratory testing, case management, and public awareness campaigns. Active surveillance involves systematically monitoring potential cases and contacts to promptly identify and isolate infected individuals. Laboratory testing plays a crucial role in confirming diagnoses and aiding in epidemiological tracking. Effective case management focuses on providing supportive care, alleviating symptoms, and preventing complications. Public awareness campaigns disseminate vital information about the disease, its mode of transmission, preventive measures, and the importance of seeking timely medical attention.
Prevention remains a cornerstone of the public health approach to mpox. Key preventive measures emphasize avoiding close contact with infected individuals, practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing, and disinfecting contaminated surfaces. Limiting contact with animals that could potentially carry the virus, particularly rodents and primates, is also essential. In specific contexts, vaccination may be considered as a preventive strategy, targeting individuals at higher risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers or those in close contact with confirmed cases.
The global response to mpox represents a concerted effort involving international organizations, national health authorities, and research institutions. Collaborative initiatives focus on information sharing, best practice dissemination, and the development of effective diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines. The World Health Organization (WHO) serves as a central coordinating body, providing guidance, technical support, and facilitating collaboration among various stakeholders.
Moving forward, sustained vigilance and proactive public health interventions will be crucial in curtailing the spread of mpox in Ghana and globally. Continued monitoring, prompt case detection, and effective management are essential to mitigate the impact of the disease. Public awareness campaigns play a pivotal role in empowering communities with the knowledge and resources necessary to protect themselves and others. The ongoing development of improved diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines holds significant promise in enhancing our capacity to combat this evolving public health challenge. Continued investment in research and development will be critical in strengthening our preparedness and response to mpox and other emerging infectious diseases.
