MPox case surges to nine in Ghana

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) continues to record more cases of monkeypox (MPox).

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.

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

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.

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

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

“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.

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

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

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

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.