The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has issued a public alert on the alarming rise in Mpox (Monkeypox) cases across the country.
As of Wednesday, June 25, 2025, Ghana has recorded 133 confirmed Mpox cases since the first was identified on May 12, 2025.
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The outbreak appears to be most concentrated in the Western and Western North Regions, with males comprising the majority of confirmed cases.
In an official press release signed by GMA President Dr. (Med) Frank Serebour and General Secretary Dr. (Dent) Richard Selormey, the association acknowledged the efforts by the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service, and other partners in combating the spread.
However, it urged a stronger push in public education to address the situation more effectively.
Mpox is described in the statement as a viral illness that is often self-limiting but can cause severe disease or death.
Transmission typically occurs through direct contact with infected individuals, respiratory droplets, body fluids, or contaminated surfaces.
The GMA advised the public to remain alert to symptoms such as fever, body pain, and distinctive rashes, especially those affecting the soles of the feet and palms of the hands.
Those experiencing symptoms are urged to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility.
The release further encourages Ghanaians to avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, and to practice rigorous personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing and use of sanitizers to curb the spread of all viral infections.
Healthcare providers have also been reminded to implement enhanced infection prevention and control measures, along with proper use of personal protective equipment in all clinical settings.
Finally, the GMA appealed to media houses to support risk communication efforts and use their platforms to help inform and educate the public.
Know more about Mpox
Mpox is a contagious viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus, part of the orthopoxvirus family.
The disease spreads primarily through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects. Common symptoms include:
- Painful skin rashes
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Flu-like symptoms
Mpox can lead to severe illness and may leave permanent skin scars.
How Mpox spreads
Mpox transmission occurs through:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact
- Exposure to bodily fluids
- Contact with respiratory droplets
- Touching contaminated surfaces or clothing
