Mpox outbreak: Three frontline health workers in the Western Region infected- Ghana Health Service
Dr. Pius Mensah, Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Director of the Ghana Health Service, has verified that three emergency Mpox patients are currently receiving care in the metropolis, with three frontline health workers also infected and undergoing treatment.
During a media briefing on September 18, Dr. Mensah revealed that the metropolis has recorded 70 confirmed cases of the viral disease to date, with an additional 184 suspected cases reported across 15 communities, many of which are located along the coast.
“We will continue to appeal to the public to avoid behaviours that expose them to contracting or spreading the virus,” Dr. Mensah said, stressing that community vigilance and adherence to basic preventive guidelines remain Sekondi – Takoradi’s strongest shield.
He urged the media to join forces with health authorities in stepping up education, particularly in high-risk communities.
WHO Support
Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has received a joint mission team from the World Health Organization (WHO), where she provided updates on the Western Region’s Mpox response.
She highlighted key interventions, including monitoring and tracking cases to identify trends and patterns.
Mpox, formerly referred to as monkeypox, is a viral disease impacting humans and animals. “The Mpox situation in Ghana’s Western Region is a source of concern, with the region responsible for 71% of confirmed cases,” she said.
Dr. Ayensu-Danquah indicated that the Ghana Health Service, in conjunction with the Western Regional Health Directorate, is heightening efforts to contain the outbreak through intensified surveillance, public awareness, vaccination strategies, and other initiatives.
“These efforts reflect President John Dramani Mahama’s dedication to advancing healthcare in Ghana. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, working to bolster healthcare infrastructure and response capabilities,” she commented.
The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, in partnership with WHO, has devised a unified continental response strategy to inform these interventions. The strategy prioritizes controlling outbreaks, broadening vaccination coverage, and transitioning towards sustainable long-term response tactics.
What is causing concern among health officials is the persistent increase in infections despite ongoing outreach efforts, education campaigns, and risk-mitigation messages over several weeks.
