Director of the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre (GIDC) and Mpox Case Management Lead, Dr Joseph Oliver-Commey has urged Ghanaians not to panic over the recent recorded cases of Mpox in the country.
Speaking on 3FM Sunrise with Helen Appiah-Ampofo on May 19, the Director stated that although the number of confirmed cases of the disease are rising, there is no cause for alarm.
“Ghana has five cases, with four active cases confirmed as of now. We know we will weather the storm, so there’s no need to panic.” He assured.
The country’s Mpox Case Management Lead also hinted at adequate preparation made to advert any serious outbreak.
“We are not envisioning a mass outbreak and our relevant Health Directorates have swiftly activated response protocols, including contact tracing, to prevent further transmission of the virus,” Dr Oliver-Commey assured.
He however asked Ghanaians to visit health facilities when they feel unwell.
“Practice regular hand hygiene, avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms, particularly those with rashes, and report suspected cases to the nearest health facility without delay,” he cautioned.
Mpox is a viral disease transmitted through close contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials. Common symptoms include rash, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.
The Greater Accra Region and the Western Region are the regions that have so far been affected.