The recent rise in Mpox cases in Ghana, now totaling nine, should not cause panic, according to Dr. Shiraz Issahaku, President of the Allied Health Professionals Council at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and lecturer at the University of Ghana Medical School.
Speaking on Prime News on ABC News GH, Dr. Issahaku urged the public to remain calm and follow basic preventive measures.
“We should not panic,” he said, advising citizens to seek medical care immediately if they notice a rash, cover their rash to prevent spreading fluid, wash hands frequently, and avoid unnecessary physical contact.
Dr. Issahaku reassured Ghanaians that the country is well prepared to handle the situation, emphasizing lessons learned from the Covid-19 pandemic. “We are well prepared, Covid has taught us a lot of lessons,” he said, adding confidently, “The country is safe, we can handle these cases.”
His comments come after the Ghana Health Service confirmed four new Mpox infections, with two cases each reported in the Western and Greater Accra regions, increasing the total to nine.
Despite the increase, health authorities maintain that there is no cause for alarm. Contact tracing is ongoing, with all identified individuals under active monitoring.
The Ghana Health Service has also intensified surveillance across regional health directorates and reactivated national response protocols to prevent further transmission.
Mpox, a viral disease characterized by fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle pain, spreads mainly through close contact with infected persons, animals, or contaminated materials. Officials continue to urge the public to stay vigilant and observe strict hygiene practices.
