By Grace Zigah
Ghana has recorded a third confirmed case of Mpox in 2025, according to a situational report released by the Ghana Health Service (GHS).
The announcement has prompted renewed calls for vigilance as public health officials ramp up testing, contact tracing, and community surveillance to prevent a wider outbreak.
The latest case, confirmed in February but disclosed in the most recent update, adds to the growing concerns about the re-emergence of the disease within the country.
The cases so far have remained mild, with no fatalities recorded.
All patients are reportedly under self-isolation, and close contacts are being monitored and tested.
Case Profiles and Regional Spread
GHS reports that all 16 regions of Ghana have registered suspected cases since the beginning of the year.
The first confirmed case involved a 32-year-old male on antiretroviral therapy who presented with a week-long history of fever, chills, and pustular lesions on his trunk, gluteal, and anorectal regions.
The second was a 34-year-old man who developed a widespread rash and sought medical attention after his condition failed to improve with self-treatment.
Public health investigations are currently underway into all confirmed cases, and officials are actively conducting contact tracing and community outreach to identify additional potential infections.
National and Regional Preparedness
In light of the growing number of cases in West Africa—including high case counts in Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Côte d’Ivoire—Ghanaian health authorities are stepping up their response.
The National Public Health Reference Laboratory (NPHRL) has been activated to provide diagnostic testing capacity, while the Ghana Infectious Diseases Centre (GIDC) has been designated as the central isolation facility for patients requiring inpatient care.
Dr. Dennis Odai Laryea, Deputy Director in charge of Disease Surveillance at the GHS, emphasized the need for the public to take preventive measures seriously.
“We shouldn’t be having outbreaks,” he stated. “Every case is a concern, and early containment is key.”
He also urged Ghanaians to maintain hygiene practices adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, including regular hand washing and use of hand sanitizers, noting that Mpox is primarily spread through close bodily contact.
Background on Mpox in Ghana and West Africa
Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease that re-emerged in West Africa in recent years.
Ghana experienced a significant outbreak in 2022, which led to public health alerts and international monitoring.
While case numbers eventually declined, sporadic infections have continued to occur in the sub-region.
The disease, which causes skin lesions, fever, and fatigue, is generally self-limiting but can become severe in vulnerable populations, especially those with compromised immune systems.
GHS has stated that public health education on the signs and symptoms of Mpox is ongoing.
Meanwhile, Training for healthcare workers on updated case definitions and response protocols is also being expanded nationwide.
A Call for Public Cooperation
Health officials continue to call for public cooperation in identifying symptoms early and reporting suspected cases.
“Our success in controlling Mpox depends not only on our systems but also on the public’s willingness to engage in prevention and report early,” Dr. Laryea emphasized.
