A sign of MPOX
Ghana has recorded its first Mpox-related death since the onset of the outbreak, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed in a Facebook update on July 27, 2025. The country’s total number of confirmed cases has now surged to 257 as of July 22, marking a significant rise in infections.
The GHS revealed that 23 new cases have been documented recently, although no patients are currently hospitalized. Mpox, a viral disease that spreads primarily through close personal contact with infected individuals, remains a public health threat. Citizens are being urged to maintain strict hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing and avoiding close contact with anyone showing symptoms.
Health officials are particularly concerned about vulnerable populations. The Ghana Health Service announced that individuals with weakened immune systems will be prioritized for vaccination once doses arrive in the country. Dr. Franklyn Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health at the GHS, disclosed that discussions with the World Health Organization (WHO) are in their final stages to secure the needed vaccines.
Signs, symptoms and prevention of MPOX
“We are at an advanced stage in our talks with the WHO to get the vaccines. Those with compromised immunity will be the first to receive them once they arrive,” Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe stated.
As of July 10, a total of 170 Mpox cases had already been confirmed across more than 50 districts within 12 regions of Ghana. The regions most impacted include the Western Region, Western North, and Greater Accra.
Statistics on MPOX
Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe emphasized that while the disease’s growth rate has slowed, continued vigilance is necessary. “The good news is that we’re not seeing very severe cases. Our priority now is early detection. We’ve investigated around 1,200 suspected cases and traced 1,700 contacts. Out of these, only six contacts turned into confirmed cases,” he noted.
He further stressed that the outbreak is a national concern. “This is a national outbreak. Everyone must take it seriously and protect themselves.”The GHS continues to monitor the situation closely, aiming to limit the spread through rapid response, community sensitization, and targeted vaccination.
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