Story: News Desk 

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) says it is stepping up public education efforts nationwide following a recent spike in Mpox infections.

As of July 30, 2025, the GHS had  confirmed 20 new Mpox cases, bringing the total number of recorded infections in the country to 302.

The latest figures come just days after the Service announced Ghana’s first Mpox-related death on July 22, alongside 23 new infections.

In an interview with the media,  the Director of Public Health at the GHS, Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, said public awareness campaigns would be intensified, particularly within second-cycle and tertiary institutions. 

He urged the public to remain alert and report any suspected symptoms to the nearest health facility.

“The Ghana Health Service, in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service, has developed guidelines for dissemination,” Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe said.

“Initially, we focused on private and secondary schools, but we are now expanding the campaign to cover all educational levels and the general public.”

Despite these assurances, the government is facing growing criticism over its handling of the outbreak, as infection numbers continue to rise sharply.

Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, a member of Parliament’s Health Committee, described the government’s response as inadequate.

“The government’s handling of the Mpox situation is very abysmal,” Dr. Agyemang said. “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 stressed the urgent need for widespread sensitisation campaigns to educate the public on symptoms, preventive measures, and when to seek medical attention.