Ghana Health Service Reports New Mpox Case in Greater Accra Region

The Ghana Health Service confirmed a new Mpox case in Greater Accra, bringing total cases to three. The case was reported last week, with investigations ongoing. The GHS is monitoring contacts of the confirmed case. Initially detected in August 2024, Mpox symptoms can include fever and rash. The GHS remains vigilant in combating the virus’s spread.

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported its third confirmed case of Mpox in the Greater Accra Region, raising concerns regarding the spread of this viral illness. Dr. Dennis Laryea, the Deputy Director of Public Health at GHS, indicated that this case was identified in the previous week and that investigations are ongoing within the region. Presently, no additional cases have been detected among the contacts of the confirmed individual, although health officials are diligently monitoring for any new symptoms. Since the outbreak began, the GHS has enacted measures to ensure rigorous tracking and control of the virus’s spread, reassuring the public that individuals who may have had contact with the recent case are being closely watched. The initial Mpox case was documented in the Western Region in August 2024, with subsequent cases confirmed involving direct contacts of the initial patient. The World Health Organization provides clarity on Mpox, previously referred to as monkeypox, as a viral condition caused by the monkeypox virus, categorized under Orthopoxvirus. Recent years have seen a surge in cases linked to the clade IIb strain, underscoring the threat posed by this illness, which manifests symptoms such as fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The GHS continues to reaffirm its dedication to effective monitoring and disease control strategies, even in the face of rising cases.

Mpox, or monkeypox, is a viral infection stemming from the monkeypox virus, recognized within the Orthopoxvirus genus. Two distinct clades have been identified: clade I, along with subclades Ia and Ib, and clade II, including subclades IIa and IIb. Between 2022 and 2023, the clade IIb strain facilitated a global outbreak of the infection. Understanding the current case developments within Ghana is critical, as public health authorities work to prevent further transmission and safeguard communities.

In conclusion, the emergence of the latest Mpox case in the Greater Accra Region highlights the ongoing risk associated with this viral infection. With health authorities actively monitoring contacts and maintaining public health measures, the GHS emphasizes its commitment to controlling the disease spread. It remains essential for the public to remain informed about Mpox’s symptoms and the necessary precautions to minimize infection risk.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com