The Western Regional Health Directorate is actively combating Mpox following the confirmation of 60 cases out of 299 suspected between January and June 2025, demonstrating a robust and coordinated public health response.
Dr. Gifty Amugi, Regional Public Health Director, revealed that 374 contacts have been identified and traced, with 217 individuals followed up within the critical 21-day monitoring period. Currently, 32 patients are receiving home care, while 28 have fully recovered, with no fatalities reported.
The disease has been detected across 10 districts, with seven suspected cases still under investigation. Dr. Amugi emphasized that all confirmed cases remain mild, and importantly, no health workers have contracted the virus, reflecting effective infection control measures.
To bolster the response, the Public Health Emergency Committee has been activated, coordinating case searches, door-to-door surveillance, and contact tracing efforts to prevent further spread.
Community engagement remains a central pillar of the containment strategy. Risk communication initiatives include the distribution of educational materials, radio discussions, jingles, and mobile outreach vans targeting vulnerable populations to raise awareness and promote preventive behaviors.
Acknowledging the collaboration of stakeholders, Dr. Amugi praised their collective efforts in controlling the outbreak.
Complementing these efforts, the Ghana Red Cross Society has trained 100 volunteers who are actively involved in community education and awareness campaigns, strengthening grassroots mobilization against Mpox in the region.
This multi-sectoral approach exemplifies Ghana’s commitment to protecting public health through vigilance, education, and community partnership.
