Ghana Reports First Mpox Case of 2024, Variant Under Investigation

Ghana's health service has confirmed the country's first mpox case of 2024, prompting heightened vigilance and investigation into the specific variant involved. The patient, described as a young male, presented with typical symptoms including fever, rash, and body pains.

Health officials have initiated contact tracing, identifying 25 individuals who are now under close monitoring. This proactive approach aims to contain any potential spread of the virus, which has been a concern in Ghana since previous outbreaks in 2022 and 2023.

Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, stated, "We are conducting thorough testing to determine if this case involves the clade Ib variant, which has recently raised global alarm due to its rapid spread and limited understanding."

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has a rich history dating back to its discovery in 1958 among research monkeys. The virus, belonging to the same family as smallpox, first infected humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since then, our understanding of mpox has evolved significantly.

"The recent global spread of mpox, particularly the clade Ib variant, necessitates increased vigilance and coordinated international efforts to control its transmission."

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a global public health emergency in August 2024, marking the second such declaration in two years. This decision was prompted by an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that subsequently spread to neighboring countries.

It's crucial to note that mpox is a zoonotic disease, capable of transmission between animals and humans. The virus spreads through close contact with lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. Symptoms typically persist for 2-4 weeks, with fatality rates historically ranging from 0% to 11% in the general population.

Two distinct genetic clades of mpox exist: the Central African (Congo Basin) and the West African clade. The emergence of the clade Ib variant has raised concerns due to its apparent ease of transmission, particularly through close contact, including sexual activity.

Interestingly, the smallpox vaccine has shown approximately 85% effectiveness in preventing mpox, highlighting the interconnected nature of these viruses. However, the cessation of routine smallpox vaccination has been linked to increased mpox outbreaks, as it provided some cross-protection.

As Ghana grapples with this new case, it's worth noting that mpox can infect a wide range of mammalian species, not just monkeys. The natural reservoir of the virus remains unknown, though rodents are suspected to play a role in its ecology.

Health authorities emphasize the importance of proper hand hygiene and personal protective equipment in preventing mpox transmission, especially in healthcare settings. The virus can remain viable on surfaces for extended periods, particularly in dark, cool, and low humidity environments.

As the situation unfolds, Ghana's health service continues to work diligently to manage this case and prevent further spread, while contributing to the global understanding of mpox and its evolving variants.