Many more Ghanaians continue to fall prey to monkeypox (MPox), leading to a surge in cases recorded, according to the Ghana Health Service (GHS).

0

In its recent update, the Service reported that as of 31st May, 26 new cases had been recorded, bringing the total confirmed cases to 45.

1

As of now, two individuals who contracted the diseases are on admission at a health facility.

2

In a post on Facebook, the Service noted the recent increase in the number of confirmed Mpox cases "is largely due to enhanced surveillance efforts, particularly through active contact tracing, and a heightened level of awareness among the public."

3

"These efforts are crucial in our strategy to identify and isolate cases promptly within communities."

4

"We remain committed to maintaining this momentum to ensure that all cases are detected early, thereby helping to contain the outbreak effectively," the Service added.

5

6

As of May 29, 10 new cases had been recorded, leading to a total of 19 confirmed cases.

7

Five individuals were on admission at health facilities at the time.

8

Presently, no deaths have been reported so far.

9

10

As of May 21, the GHS in a flier revealed that the country's confirmed cases had hit nine. The Service earlier noted that as of May 18, the number of cases stood at four.

11

The cases were identified in the Greater Accra and Western regions. This brings the total number of cases to four.

12

Ghana recorded the first Mpox case in June 2022, with five cases, and by November 2023, health authorities had confirmed a total of 34 cases.

13

Despite the increase in cases, Ghana has not recorded any Mpox-related deaths.

14

The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service have called on all media houses to support public education efforts by using their platforms to raise awareness and provide accurate information on Mpox.

15

"The Government of Ghana remains committed to safeguarding public health. Drawing on our experience in managing similar outbreaks, we will continue to implement appropriate measures to protect the health and well-being of all residents," said in its statement dated May 18.

16

Mpox is a viral illness similar to smallpox. It typically causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash.

17

The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s skin or bodily fluids, including through sexual contact.

18

To reduce your risk, avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, maintain proper hand hygiene, and refrain from sharing personal items.

19

Symptoms may include fever, rash or lesions, tiredness, headaches, muscle and back pain, and swollen glands.

20

Across Africa, the disease remains a major concern. As of March 2025, more than 24,200 cases and around 260 deaths have been recorded in 22 countries.

21