Ghana Records First Mpox Death Amid Rising Cases

Ghana has recorded its first death related to the mpox outbreak, health authorities have confirmed, as the country faces a surge in infections.

Last week, 23 new cases were confirmed, bringing the total to 257 since the virus was first detected in the country in June 2022.

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh assured that "the situation is under control," emphasizing the importance of early detection and responsible behavior.

Mpox is caused by a virus from the same family as smallpox and its main symptoms include high fever and skin rashes.

Ghanaian health authorities are preparing to receive vaccines from the World Health Organization (WHO) this week. High-risk groups have been identified and are ready to begin vaccinations.

Since the beginning of 2024, more than 37,000 cases of mpox have been recorded in 25 countries, including 125 deaths, according to the WHO. The DRC has the highest percentage of cases and deaths.