Ghana Health Service Confirms New Mpox Case in Greater Accra Region

The Ghana Health Service has confirmed a new Mpox case in Greater Accra, raising total cases in Ghana to three. Dr. Laryea noted ongoing investigations with no new cases among contacts. The first case was recorded in August 2024, with continuous monitoring and public health measures in place to combat the outbreak.

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported a new case of Mpox within the Greater Accra Region, thereby raising the total number of recent cases in the nation to three. Dr. Dennis Laryea, the Deputy Director of Public Health at the GHS, has confirmed that this latest case was detected last week. He indicated that investigations in the region are ongoing and that no new cases have emerged among contacts, although monitoring continues to ascertain any developments in symptoms. The GHS has implemented necessary precautions to monitor and mitigate the transmission of the virus, ensuring that individuals who had contact with the confirmed case are currently under observation. The first Mpox case was identified in August 2024 in the Western Region, followed by a second case involving the mother of the initial patient, bringing the total to two by the end of October 2024. Despite the increasing number of cases, the GHS remains committed to its disease control measures and vigilance in public health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is caused by the monkeypox virus and presents various symptoms including rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes among others, which can last between 2 to 4 weeks.

Mpox, previously referred to as monkeypox, is a significant viral infection that is categorized under the Orthopoxvirus genus. The WHO has emphasized the ongoing risk associated with this illness, particularly in light of recent global outbreaks attributed to the clade IIb strain during the years 2022 to 2023. In Ghana, the GHS is proactively monitoring the situation following the identification of cases, illustrating a commitment to public health and disease prevention.

In conclusion, the recent confirmation of a new Mpox case in the Greater Accra Region by the Ghana Health Service highlights the necessity for continuous monitoring and public health vigilance. The rise in cases, while concerning, is being addressed through robust health measures aimed at controlling the outbreak. The adherence to surveillance protocols and the public’s cooperation will be essential in preventing further transmission of this viral infection.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com