GHS responds to mpox surge with nationwide awareness campaign
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has ramped up public awareness campaigns following a concerning rise in Mpox infections. As of July 30, 2025, the country has confirmed 20 new cases, bringing the total to 302.
This surge comes just over a week after Ghana reported its first Mpox-related death on July 22, along with 23 new cases.
In an interview with Citi News, Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health at the GHS, said the Service is intensifying its public education efforts, focusing particularly on secondary schools and tertiary institutions.
“The Ghana Health Service, in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service, has developed guidelines for dissemination,” he said.
Initially targeting private and secondary schools, the GHS has expanded its campaign to cover all levels of education and the general population. Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected symptoms to the nearest health facility.
However, the government’s response to the outbreak is facing mounting criticism.
Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, a member of Parliament’s Health Committee, has described the response as “abysmal.”
“The government’s handling of the Mpox situation is very abysmal, Let’s not joke with our health, especially when viral conditions are involved. A quick survey will show that many Ghanaians don’t know what to do if they suspect Mpox, and yet cases are escalating.”
He called for immediate and widespread public education on the disease, its prevention, and when to seek medical help.
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