Monkeypox Ghana: What You Need to Know

Monkeypox in Ghana has become an increasing health concern, with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) confirming several cases and urging the public to stay alert. 

This infectious disease spreads through close contact with an infected person or animal, often presenting with symptoms like fever, rash, and fatigue. Staying ahead of the outbreak requires early awareness and swift action.

The GHS has reported 230 suspected cases across 88 districts, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance. 

As the situation evolves, this blog will provide clear insights on identifying symptoms, preventing transmission, and understanding treatment options to help you stay informed and prepared.

What is MonkeyPox? 

Mpox, previously called monkeypox, is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus family. 

There are two main versions of this virus: clade I (which includes two subtypes, Ia and Ib) and clade II (with subtypes IIa and IIb). A major outbreak during 2022–2023 was triggered by the clade IIb strain.

The 2022–2023 Monkeypox outbreak in Ghana was part of a broader spread across West Africa, caused by the West African clade of the virus. Unlike some neighboring countries, Ghana had no previous endemic cases and only encountered mpox during this outbreak.

How is MonkeyPox Transmitted? 

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how monkeypox in Ghana can spread: 

Animal to Human Transmission

• Direct Contact: Touching the blood, bodily fluids, or lesions of infected animals.
• Eating Infected Meat: Consuming undercooked meat from infected animals can spread the virus.
• Animal Bites or Scratches: Infections can result from bites or scratches by infected animals.

Human to Human Transmission

• Respiratory Droplets: Close, face-to-face interactions can spread the virus through respiratory droplets.
• Direct Contact: Contact with bodily fluids or lesions from an infected person can cause transmission.
• Contaminated Materials: Indirect transmission occurs through objects like clothing or bedding that have been in contact with infectious lesions

How Can You Catch Monkeypox? – 5 Ways to Be Aware Of

Monkeypox spreads through various forms of close contact, making it essential to know how transmission occurs to reduce the risk of infection: 

• Close contact with infected individuals, including exposure to skin lesions, respiratory droplets, or bodily fluids.
• Virus entry through broken skin, eyes, nose, or mouth, even without visible cuts or wounds.
• Intimate contact, though not officially classified as a sexually transmitted infection, can spread the virus.
• Contact with infected animals, such as monkeys, rats, or squirrels, can spread the virus.
• Handling contaminated objects, like bedding, clothing, or towels, can result in infection.

Do You Have Monkeypox? A Guide to the Symptoms 

Mpox symptoms typically develop in stages, with both flu-like signs and a distinctive rash that progresses over time.

If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect exposure, seek medical advice promptly​

What is the Treatment for Monkeypox in Ghana? What Works and When to Seek Help

While there are no officially approved antiviral treatments specifically for mpox, several medications have been used during outbreaks. Here’s an overview of the current options:

• Tecovirimat (TPOXX)
  • FDA-approved for smallpox but available for mpox treatment under an emergency access protocol by the CDC.
  • Stockpiled by the US Strategic National Stockpile and prescribed during outbreaks under special authorization.
• Cidofovir
  • Typically used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections.
  • Demonstrated activity against poxviruses in lab and animal studies, though its effectiveness for mpox in humans is uncertain.
  • Available for mpox treatment through the CDC’s expanded access investigational new drug (EA-IND) program.
• Brincidofovir (Tembexa)
  • A prodrug of cidofovir, with fewer risks of severe kidney toxicity.
  • Approved for smallpox treatment and under development for compassionate use for mpox treatment by the CDC.

If you have severe symptoms or belong to a high-risk group, healthcare providers may consider these antiviral options. However, the effectiveness of these treatments for mpox is still being studied​

How to Cure Monkeypox at Home?

While there is no specific cure for monkeypox, you can manage symptoms at home with supportive care to aid recovery and prevent complications.

• Cover the Rash: Use gauze or bandages to cover lesions to prevent spreading the virus to others and your surroundings.
• Avoid Popping or Scratching Lesions: This won’t speed recovery and can cause the virus to spread or lead to bacterial infections.
• Don’t Shave Affected Areas: Avoid shaving until scabs fall off and new skin forms, as shaving can spread the virus.
• Keep the Rash Clean and Dry: When not bathing, keep lesions dry to prevent infections.
• Wear a Mask Around Others: Continue masking until the rash and all other symptoms are fully resolved.
• Prioritize Rest and Nutrition: Healthy eating and adequate rest can help your body recover faster.
• Use Gloves for Rash on Hands: Wear non-irritating gloves when touching shared surfaces or objects. Disposable gloves should be discarded after use, while reusable gloves should be washed with soap and water.
• Practice Frequent Handwashing: Wash hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially after touching the rash.
• Handle Rash with Care: If you accidentally touch the rash, wash your hands immediately and avoid touching sensitive areas like your eyes, mouth, or genitals to prevent further spread.

FAQs

Who is most at risk for monkeypox?

People at higher risk include those in close physical contact with infected individuals, especially men who have sex with men, and those with weakened immune systems, including individuals living with HIV.

What country has the highest monkeypox?

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) reports the highest number of mpox cases in Africa, with 1,838 confirmed, 1,095 suspected cases, and 35 deaths as of August 30, 2024, followed by Burundi (Africa CDC repo

Is monkeypox curable?

There is no specific cure, but most people recover with supportive care. Antivirals and vaccines help prevent and manage severe cases.

How did monkeypox start?

Mpox was first identified in 1958 during two outbreaks of a pox-like disease in monkey colonies used for research in Denmark. Despite the name, the exact animal reservoir is unknown, with rodents suspected to play a significant role (CDC).

Want to See Doctors in Ghana? 

Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes, especially after contact with an infected person or travel to affected areas.

Wrap Up

Monkeypox Ghana remains a pressing health concern, requiring individuals to stay informed and take preventive measures to limit transmission. 

Early recognition of symptoms and avoiding contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated objects are essential to managing the outbreak effectively.

For expert advice and personalized support, connect with a healthcare professional through the DrDoGood platform to receive reliable guidance on handling monkeypox and staying safe.