Ghana Records Fourth Mpox Case as Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality Confirms Infection; Health Authorities Heighten Vigilance

This latest case follows earlier reports in Greater Accra and the Western Region, prompting intensified surveillance and public health campaigns to curb transmission.  

Details of the Outbreak: 
In a press release dated May 18, 2025, Municipal Health Director Mrs. Wilhelmina Duah Mortley announced that the confirmed case was detected through heightened surveillance efforts. Tarkwa Nsuaem, a municipality within Ghana’s Western Region, becomes the second area in the region to report an infection, joining Greater Accra as hotspots in the emerging outbreak.  

Immediate Actions by Health Authorities: 
The Municipal Health Directorate (MHD) has activated response measures, including:  
-Community Sensitization: Public education campaigns on Mpox symptoms, transmission, and prevention.  
-Active Case Searches: Reviews of medical records and enhanced surveillance across healthcare facilities.  
-Contact Tracing: Rigorous tracking of individuals exposed to the infected patient to isolate potential spread.  

Symptoms and Transmission:  
Mpox, a viral disease transmitted via close contact with infected humans, animals, or contaminated materials, presents with rashes, fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. Health officials emphasize early detection to prevent severe outcomes.  

Preventive Measures for the Public:  
Residents are advised to:  
1. Practice frequent handwashing with soap or alcohol-based sanitizers.  
2. Avoid physical contact with symptomatic individuals or wild animals.  
3. Report suspected cases immediately to the nearest health facility.  

Statement from Health Leadership:
“The Ghana Health Service, in collaboration with municipal authorities, is fully committed to containing this outbreak. We urge residents to adhere to preventive guidelines and support health teams during contact tracing,” stated Mrs. Mortley in the release.  

National and Regional Context: 
Ghana’s fourth case underscores a growing public health challenge. Earlier cases were detected in Greater Accra and the Western Region, with health officials now coordinating cross-regional efforts to limit spread. The Ghana Health Service is also engaging international partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to strengthen diagnostic capacity and resource allocation.  

Call to Action:  
Media houses are urged to amplify official health advisories to combat misinformation. Citizens are reminded to rely on verified sources for updates and avoid stigmatizing affected individuals.  

Closing Appeal: 
“Protecting our communities requires collective vigilance. Adhere to preventive measures and report symptoms promptly,” the release concluded.Source: Nana Esi Brew Monney

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