Ghana Reports First Monkeypox Death Amid Rising Cases

Ghana Confirms First Mpox Fatality Amidst Soaring Case Numbers

Ghanaian health authorities confirmed the nation’s first death attributed too Mpox on Sunday, a grim milestone coinciding with a significant escalation in new infections. The west African nation has now registered a total of 257 cases since the virus was first identified there in June 2022.

In the past week alone, 23 new cases have been reported, marking the highest weekly surge since the initial detection of the virus. This alarming rise in infections has led to the country’s first recorded fatality from Mpox.

Despite the escalating situation, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh assured the public that “the situation is under control.”

Understanding Mpox: What You Need to Know

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can cause flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash. The virus is transmitted thru close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus.

While most human cases of mpox result in mild illness, the virus can be more severe for certain individuals, including those with weakened immune systems, children, and pregnant women. Public health measures focus on preventing transmission through education, contact tracing, and vaccination where appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mpox

What is mpox?

Mpox is a viral disease caused by the mpox virus, characterized by flu-like symptoms and a rash.

How is Mpox transmitted?

Mpox spreads through close contact with an infected person, animal, or contaminated materials.

What are the symptoms of Mpox?

Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that can appear on the face, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet.

Is Mpox treatable?

While there is no specific treatment for Mpox, supportive care can help manage symptoms. antiviral medications used for smallpox may also be effective.

Can Mpox be prevented?

Prevention strategies involve avoiding close contact with infected individuals, practicing good hygiene, and vaccination for those at high risk.

What is the outlook for Mpox cases in Ghana?

Ghana is actively monitoring and responding to the increase in Mpox cases, with health authorities emphasizing control measures.

What are your thoughts on the current Mpox situation? Share this article and join the conversation in the comments below.

What public health measures are being implemented in Ghana to contain the spread of mpox, beyond rapid case identification and isolation?

Understanding the Recent Outbreak & Public Health Response

Ghana has recently reported its first confirmed death related to monkeypox (now commonly referred to as mpox), alongside a concerning increase in reported cases. This progress underscores the ongoing global threat posed by the virus and the importance of heightened vigilance and preventative measures. As of late July 2025, health officials are actively working to contain the spread and understand the factors contributing to this rise in infections. This article will delve into the current situation, symptoms, transmission, prevention, and available resources regarding mpox in Ghana and globally.

Current Situation in ghana: Case Numbers & Geographic Distribution

While specific numbers fluctuate, reports indicate a significant uptick in suspected and confirmed mpox cases across several regions of Ghana. The initial cases were concentrated in [Specific regions if data available, otherwise state: “southern Ghana”], but there are now indications of spread to other areas. The first fatality, reported on [Date of reported death], involved a [Age and gender of deceased, if available] wiht underlying health conditions. The Ghana Health Service (GHS) is leading the response, focusing on:

Rapid case identification and isolation.

Contact tracing to limit further transmission.

Risk communication and community engagement.

Strengthening surveillance systems.

Recognizing the symptoms of Mpox

Early recognition of mpox symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment. The illness typically begins with:

Fever: Often the first sign, accompanied by chills.

Headache: Moderate to severe.

Muscle aches: Similar to flu-like symptoms.

Swollen lymph nodes: A characteristic feature, often in the neck, armpits, or groin.

Within 1-3 days of fever onset, a rash typically appears. This rash progresses through distinct stages:

1. Macules: Flat, discolored spots.
2. Papules: Raised bumps.
3. Vesicles: Fluid-filled blisters.
4. Pustules: Pus-filled blisters.
5. Scabs: eventually, the pustules crust over and form scabs, which eventually fall off.

The rash can appear on any part of the body, including the face, hands, feet, and genitals. It’s significant to note that not everyone experiences all stages of the rash, and the presentation can vary. Mpox rash can sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions, so medical evaluation is essential.

how Mpox Spreads: Transmission Pathways

Mpox transmission occurs through close contact with an infected individual or animal. Key routes of transmission include:

Direct contact: With the rash,scabs,or body fluids of an infected person.

Respiratory secretions: Through prolonged face-to-face contact.

Contaminated materials: Touching items (clothing, bedding, medical supplies) that have been in contact with an infected person.

Animal-to-human transmission: Through bites or scratches from infected animals (rodents, primates).

Vertical transmission: From mother to fetus during pregnancy (rare).

It’s critically importent to understand that mpox is not as easily spread as COVID-19. Prolonged, close contact is generally required for transmission.

prevention strategies: Reducing Your Risk

Several steps can be taken to reduce the risk of mpox infection:

Avoid close contact: With individuals exhibiting symptoms.

Practice good hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Safe sex practices: Using condoms can reduce, but not eliminate, risk.

Avoid contact with wild animals: Especially rodents and primates.

Vaccination: While smallpox vaccination offers some protection, newer mpox vaccines (like JYNNEOS) are more effective and are being deployed in some regions.

Isolation: If you suspect you have mpox, isolate yourself immediately and seek medical attention.

The Role of Vaccination: Smallpox & Mpox Vaccines

Historically, smallpox vaccination provided cross-protection against mpox.However, with the eradication of smallpox in 1980, routine vaccination ceased, leaving a larger population susceptible. Newer vaccines specifically designed for mpox, such as JYNNEOS, are now available. According to Our World in Data, vaccination rates against smallpox have dropped substantially since eradication, increasing vulnerability to mpox.

JYNNEOS vaccine: A live, attenuated vaccine approved for the prevention of mpox in adults 18 years and older.

ACAM2000: An older smallpox vaccine that can also be used for mpox prevention, but it carries a higher risk of side effects.

Vaccination is recommended for individuals at high risk of exposure, including healthcare workers and close contacts of confirmed cases.

Global Context & Lessons Learned

The recent mpox outbreak is a reminder of the importance of global health security and preparedness. The outbreak highlighted the need for:

Strengthened surveillance systems to detect and respond to emerging infectious diseases.

* Equitable access to vaccines and treatments.