230 suspected of mpox cases across 88 districts in Ghana

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) says the nation has recorded a case of monkeypox in the Bia West District of the Western North Region. The patient, a 15-year-old boy, sought medical attention on September 25 at a district government hospital.

He presented symptoms including fever, body pains, a sore throat, and a rash on his palms and face.

In a statement issued to caution the public, the GHS revealed that 230 other suspected cases have been reported across 88 districts in the country.

Twenty-five individuals who came into contact with the patient have been identified and are being monitored closely.

The GHS is conducting an initial public health investigation into the confirmed case and has indicated that it will notify the World Health Organisation (WHO) as part of its ongoing response efforts.

Tthe GHS has issued a public health advisory to inform the public and health professionals. This advisory aims to raise awareness about the symptoms of monkeypox and the importance of seeking medical help when experiencing similar signs.

Additionally, the GHS reported that 230 suspected cases of monkeypox have been identified across 88 districts nationwide.

The GHS is urging individuals to remain alert and take preventive measures. They encourage anyone with symptoms consistent with monkeypox to seek immediate medical attention to help curb further transmission of the virus.

“On the 1st of October 2024, the National Public Health and Reference Laboratory (NPHRL) confirmed a case of Mpox following laboratory testing of a suspected case from the Western North Region.

“The case is a 15-year-old male who reported at a district government hospital on 25th September 2024 with a 3-day history of fever, general body pains, sore throat, and rash which was initially in the palm and face but spread to the trunk and extremities.

“There was no history of travel over the past 21 days or history of sexual exposure to a potentially infectious person. The case was initially admitted but was later discharged and currently stable at home.

“The Western North Regional Health Directorate and the Bia West district have activated public health emergency management structures and initiated response measures. A total of 15 facility and 10 community contacts have been identified and are being followed up.”