In markets, churches, lorry terminals and other public places across the Ashanti Region, health officials armed with megaphones and flyers are fanning out with a simple message — “Mpox is real, but it can be prevented.”

The intensified education drive, covering eight districts — Kumasi Metro, Asokore Mampong, Asante Akim South, Asante Akim North, Obuasi East, Offinso, Afigya Kwabre South, and Sekyere Kumawu, comes in response to fresh Mpox cases reported in other parts of the country.

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) said Ghana recently recorded 22 new Mpox infections, pushing the national total to 735 cases, with three deaths.

The Ashanti Region alone had reported 33 cases, but no fatalities or serious complications so far.

Mpox, a viral disease that causes painful rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and body aches, spreading mainly through close physical contact, including skin-to-skin, face-to-face, or mouth-to-mouth interactions.

Though most people recovered fully, the illness could be severe in some cases, underscoring the need for vigilance.

Dr Fred Adomako Boateng, the Ashanti Regional Health Director, said the current outreach aimed to strengthen public awareness and ensured communities stayed informed and protected.

In a media interview, he said “Mpox can be serious, but we have been fortunate not to record any deaths or severe cases in the region,” stressing that prevention was better than cure hence the need for continuous education to stop the spread before it becomes a threat.

As part of the campaign, trained health officers were visiting households, churches, mosques, and markets to sensitise residents about hygiene and early reporting of symptoms.

The Regional Director urged the public to maintain good personal hygiene, avoid close contact with individuals showing signs of the disease, and seek prompt medical attention when necessary.

Health authorities are reassuring residents to remain calm, but vigilant as surveillance and public education continue to intensify across the region.