Ghana Health Service Reports New Mpox Case in Greater Accra Region

The Ghana Health Service has reported a new Mpox case in the Greater Accra Region, resulting in a total of three confirmed infections in the country. Ongoing investigations reveal no new cases among contacts, and health authorities are monitoring individuals closely. Mpox remains a significant public health concern, exhibiting various symptoms and requiring vigilant disease control measures.

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed the detection of a new Mpox case in the Greater Accra Region, raising the total number of confirmed cases in the nation to three. Dr. Dennis Laryea, Deputy Director of Public Health at GHS overseeing Disease Surveillance, indicated that the recent case was identified last week. Current investigations have not revealed additional cases among those in close contact with the confirmed individual, and the GHS continues to follow up to monitor potential symptoms. In August 2024, Ghana reported its first Mpox case in the Western Region, identifying 25 individuals who had contact with the patient. Following this, the patient’s mother also tested positive, bringing the total to two confirmed cases as of October 31, 2024. The GHS remains committed to controlling the virus’s spread, reinforcing that all necessary precautions are being implemented. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, part of the Orthopoxvirus genus, with two main clades identified. The most recent global outbreak was attributed to the clade IIb strain. Symptoms typically manifest as a rash or lesions that persist for two to four weeks, accompanied by fever, headaches, muscle pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The GHS emphasizes ongoing vigilance in combating this health threat.

Mpox, previously recognized as monkeypox, is a zoonotic viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Since its emergence, the disease has raised public health concerns, particularly with the recent global outbreaks attributed to its clade IIb strain. The Ghana Health Service is actively monitoring instances of the disease as part of its broader public health initiative to contain and mitigate the impact of viral outbreaks within the country. Awareness of symptoms and contact tracing is crucial in preventing further spread of the virus.

The recent confirmation of a new Mpox case in the Greater Accra Region underscores the ongoing health challenges posed by this viral illness in Ghana. The Ghana Health Service’s proactive measures and continuous surveillance efforts reflect their commitment to public health safety. With only three confirmed cases to date, the health authorities are working diligently to ensure that the situation is managed effectively, while educating the public about the disease and its symptoms.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com