Ghana is experiencing a significant increase in MPOX (formerly Monkeypox) cases, with health authorities confirming 20 new infections as of July 30, 2025.

This latest surge brings the total number of confirmed cases nationwide to 302, with one fatality, highlighting a concerning trend in the country's public health landscape.

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) and other relevant health agencies continue to monitor the situation closely, reminding the public about the transmission and symptoms of the viral disease.

MPOX primarily spreads through close contact with someone who has the infection, including direct physical contact with rashes, scabs, or body fluids, as well as prolonged face-to-face contact, or touching contaminated items like clothing or bedding.

Understanding MPOX: Symptoms to Watch For:

Health officials reiterate the common symptoms associated with MPOX infection, urging individuals to seek medical attention if they experience any of these signs:

• Fever: Often the initial symptom, indicating the body's response to infection.
• Headache: A common complaint accompanying many viral illnesses.
• Muscle aches: Generalized body pain, similar to flu-like symptoms.
• Swollen lymph nodes: A distinctive feature of MPOX, often appearing in the neck, armpits, or groin.
• Chills: A sensation of coldness, often associated with fever.
• Tiredness: General fatigue and lack of energy.
• Rash: A characteristic symptom that usually develops within a few days of fever. The rash often starts as flat, red spots, which then turn into raised bumps, then blisters, and finally scabs. It can appear on various parts of the body, including the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and genitals.

Public Health Response and Prevention:

The current MPOX situation in Ghana mirrors regional and global trends, where the virus continues to circulate, albeit at lower levels than the peak observed in 2022. The increase in confirmed cases underscores the importance of public awareness and adherence to preventive measures.

Ghana's health authorities have been actively involved in surveillance, contact tracing, and case management since the initial detection of MPOX in the country. Public health advisories regularly emphasize:

• Avoiding close contact with individuals who have symptoms, particularly rashes.
• Practicing good hand hygiene, including frequent washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoiding contact with contaminated materials, such as bedding, towels, or clothing used by an infected person.
• Isolating confirmed cases to prevent further spread.
• Seeking prompt medical attention if symptoms develop.

While there is no specific treatment for MPOX, supportive care is crucial, and antiviral medications can be used in severe cases. Vaccines, originally developed for smallpox, also offer protection against MPOX and have been part of targeted vaccination strategies in some countries for high-risk groups. The GHS continues to work with international partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to enhance its response capabilities and implement effective strategies to control the spread of the virus.

The public is encouraged to stay informed through official channels and cooperate with health directives to curb the rising number of MPOX cases and protect community health.