In October 2024, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) confirmed the first case of Mpox, a concerning development for public health. The confirmed case involved a young male child from the Western North Region who exhibited symptoms such as rash, fever, and body pains. Following identification of these symptoms, medical personnel acted swiftly to isolate the child according to established health protocols. Samples were sent to the National Public Health and Reference Laboratory (NPHRL), which confirmed the diagnosis on October 1. Fortunately, the child has since been discharged from care and is reported to be in stable condition.
In the wake of the confirmation, health authorities have taken proactive measures by identifying and closely monitoring 25 contacts of the patient. This latest case marks Ghana’s first instance of Mpox in 2024, following 120 cases in 2022 and eight in the previous year. The rise in Mpox cases is not only a local concern, as several other African nations—such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, South Africa, and Côte d’Ivoire—have reported outbreaks this year. The frequency of these cases prompted the Africa Centers for Disease Control (Africa CDC) to declare Mpox a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS) in August 2024.
The World Health Organization (WHO) also designated Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), underlining the global threat that the disease poses. This climactic shift in status reflects a broader need for enhanced public health responses to infectious diseases, particularly as they can easily cross borders in our interconnected world. The resurgence of Mpox cases compels countries, including Ghana, to ramp up their defenses against potential outbreaks.
To mitigate the risk of further spread, the GHS has implemented several public health interventions. These measures encompass heightened surveillance across Ghana’s regions, increased sensitization efforts directed at health personnel, and the mobilization of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers. These proactive strategies are designed to bolster health infrastructure and prepare frontline workers to handle any potential spikes in cases effectively.
Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, the Director-General of GHS, reassured the public of the health system’s capacity to manage the Mpox outbreak, citing the preparedness of healthcare workers who have received comprehensive training. According to him, extensive training includes topics such as prevention, case management, and stringent infection control measures, which are critical when dealing with diseases like Mpox. The communication of these strategies serves not only to inform the community but to instill confidence in the public health system’s ability to respond decisively.
Moreover, the activation of the National Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) aims to enhance coordination among various stakeholders as they manage the Mpox situation. Continuous efforts are being made to ensure that the strategies are effective and that the public remains informed about the risks and preventative measures pertaining to Mpox. The GHS’s comprehensive approach indicates a commitment to safeguarding public health while fostering community awareness and cooperation in the context of Mpox’s potential threat.
