By: TPA News Desk | African Stories | www.thepointafricanews.com/africa

Ghana’s health authorities have today confirmed the country’s first death attributed to mpox, marking a serious escalation in the ongoing outbreak. The Ghana Health Service (GHS) reported 23 new cases in the past week alone, raising the total confirmed to 257 since the virus was first detected in June 2022.

According to official data released by GHS, the fatality occurred amid what has become the largest weekly surge of infections since the initial detection. In its mpox update dated July 22, the GHS stated: “One new death has also been reported” alongside the additional confirmed cases.

The Ghanaian Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, reaffirmed public reassurances, telling AFP that health officials remain “in control.” He emphasized that early detection and responsible individual behavior are vital to limiting the outbreak’s spread.

The confirmed cases are concentrated primarily in the Greater Accra and Ashanti regions, prompting intensified efforts in contact tracing, public education, and enforcement of preventive protocols. So far, 14 of Ghana’s 16 administrative regions have reported infections, with a total of 257 cases arising from approximately 1,538 suspected instances being investigated.

Although most mpox infections remain mild, health experts warn the virus can be deadly—particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems. Common symptoms include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches. Transmission typically occurs through close physical contact, including contact with infected lesions or contaminated materials like clothing or bedding.

Health authorities are also preparing to receive a shipment of vaccines from the World Health Organization. Once available, distribution will target high-risk populations identified by GHS.

This outbreak in Ghana reflects a broader trend across West Africa. As of mid-2025, Sierra Leone alone had recorded over 3,300 cases and 16 deaths. Across the continent, the Africa CDC has reported approximately 47,000 confirmed mpox cases and 221 deaths since January 2024, with more than 27,000 new cases reported this year.