The Ashanti Region has not recorded any confirmed cases of Mpox (Monkeypox) with all 10 suspected cases testing negative as health officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, Regional Director of Health Service, at a press briefing to provide an update on the disease in Kumasi, said surveillance systems were active across all 43 districts.
He said the Regional Directorate had issued alerts to all districts, particularly in light of recent outbreaks in the Greater Accra and Western Regions, to ensure early detection and response.
Public education campaigns are underway, with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) distributing fact sheets on Mpox to healthcare workers.
Dr. Adomako-Boateng said Mpox spreads primarily through close contact with infected animals or humans, including direct contact with lesions, consumption of undercooked meat from infected animals, and exposure to respiratory droplets.
Symptoms of Mpox include fever, joint pain, intense weakness, and headache, followed by a rash that typically begins on the face and spreads to other parts of the body.
The Regional Director urged the public to seek medical attention promptly if they experience these symptoms because the rash could resemble other illnesses such as measles.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for Mpox.
Supportive care is provided to relieve symptoms, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems.
Most healthy individuals recover without serious complications.
Health officials continue to strengthen infection prevention and control measures to protect both patients and healthcare workers.
Dr. Boateng reiterated the importance of stakeholder collaboration and public awareness in preventing the spread of Mpox, adding that the Directorate remains vigilant and committed to safeguarding public health in the Ashanti Region.