Ghana confirms second Mpox case, steps up vigilance

Ghana  - A second case of Mpox has been confirmed in Ghana, following the diagnosis of a 15-year-old boy in September.

The latest case involves the boy's mother, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to two. Health officials are closely monitoring both cases to prevent further spread of the virus.

According to Dr. Dennis Laryea, Deputy Director of Disease Surveillance at the Ghana Health Service, all necessary precautions are being taken to contain the virus.

Mpox, also known as Monkeypox, is a viral disease that spreads through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms to Watch Out For:
- Fever
- Rash
- Swollen lymph nodes

The Ghana Health Service has intensified public awareness campaigns and is working closely with local health facilities to ensure preparedness in managing potential cases.

 Additional resources have been mobilized to monitor other contacts of the confirmed cases, particularly in the affected communities.

This development comes as the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reports a 160% increase in Mpox cases across the continent, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi accounting for nearly 95% of cases. 

Ghana reported eight cases in 2023.

Source: Lead News Online