The Western Regional Health Directorate has reactivated its public health emergency response team to combat Mpox while raising concerns over a spike in maternal deaths. There were 25 recorded maternal deaths between January and May 2025.

Meanwhile the Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has called on the Regional House of Chiefs to advocate for upgrades in the region’s health facilities particularly the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital.

Speaking at the Western Region Development Retreat, the Regional Health Directorate's Chief Pharmacist, Kwadwo Okyere Apenteng, disclosed the region has reported 187 suspected and 43 confirmed Mpox cases, contributing to 71% of the Ghana’s 107 cases.

Nine of the region's 14 districts have recorded cases, with Tarkwa Nsuaem having the highest number.

He said the region has reactivated its public health emergency response team and intensified active surveillance to curb the spread of Mpox.

"As a directorate, we've reactivated the Public Health Emergency Response Team to coordinate daily activities. We're receiving updates from districts, managing cases, and conducting active surveillance.

We've identified 187 cases and traced 246 contacts, whom we're monitoring for potential infection." He mentioned.

Regarding maternal deaths, 25 fatalities were recorded from January to May 2025, exceeding 2024's numbers for the same period.

This was largely blamed on delayed antenatal care, delayed referrals, and poor road conditions.

"Between January and May, we've recorded 25 maternal deaths a concerning increase from the same period last year. Key contributing factors include delayed hospital visits, challenges in referring patients from rural areas to better-equipped facilities, and poor road conditions."

Meanwhile, the Western Region Minister Joseph Nelson has urged the Regional House of Chiefs to advocate for critical healthcare needs, whilst pushing for the expedited upgrade of the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital.

"The ongoing renovations at Effia Nkwanta Hospital have stalled, and we pray for their resumption. Completing this project is crucial, and we must advocate for its timely finish to meet our healthcare needs." he mentioned.