The Ashanti Regional Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service, with support from UNICEF, has intensified public awareness on Mpox (Monkeypox) across eight districts within the Ashanti Region to encourage continuous adherence to preventive measures following new cases recorded in other parts of the country.
The targeted districts include Kumasi Metro, Asokore Mampong, Asante Akim South, Asante Akim North, Obuasi East, Offinso, Afigya Kwabre South, and Sekyere Kumawu.
The initiative seeks to strengthen public knowledge on healthy lifestyles and behaviours that help prevent the spread of Mpox.
According to the Ghana Health Service, Ghana has recorded 22 new cases of Mpox, bringing the national total to 735 cases, with 3 deaths reported. Out of these, the Ashanti Region has recorded 33 cases so far.
Mpox is an infectious viral disease that can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, and low energy.
Although most people recover fully, the illness can be severe in some cases. The disease spreads mainly through close contact with an infected person, including skin-to-skin, mouth-to-mouth, or face-to-face contact that can generate infectious respiratory particles.
Speaking to the media, the Ashanti Regional Health Director, Dr Fred Adomako Boateng, explained that while Mpox is a serious viral illness, the region has not recorded any fatalities or severe complications from the cases detected so far.
“Although Mpox is a viral disease that can cause severe illness, the Ashanti Region has not recorded any deaths or serious complications. However, there is the need to intensify public awareness to prevent future outbreaks,” he stated.
Dr Adomako Boateng further indicated that health officials in the selected districts will be moving to various community spaces such as churches, mosques, homes, and marketplaces to sensitise the public.
“Health officials will be visiting churches, mosques, houses, and markets to educate people on effective preventive measures. I plead with the general public to open their doors to these officials because this exercise is important for all of us,” he appealed.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding close physical contact with individuals who may show symptoms of the disease.
“Even though the rate of transmission is currently low, we must continue to observe the necessary safety precautions by avoiding intense physical contact with others,” he advised.
Health authorities have assured the public to remain calm but vigilant, practise good hygiene, and report any suspicious symptoms early for prompt medical attention.
The intensified Mpox awareness campaign forms part of the Ghana Health Service’s broader effort, with support from UNICEF, to strengthen disease surveillance and community engagement for improved public health in the Ashanti Region.
By: Nana Yaw Owusu (0240782639).