Mpox risk in Kumasi

Mpox is a viral disease that causes fever, body aches, and a distinctive rash that turns into painful blisters before crusting over. It spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, sharing bedding or clothing with an infected person, and contact with contaminated surfaces. Most cases resolve on their own, but some can become serious, especially in children and people with weak immune systems.

In Kumasi, several factors push your risk score to 58 out of 100. The Kejetia market area sees heavy daily foot traffic, making person-to-person transmission easier. Overcrowded housing in communities like Aboabo, Asawase, and Suame means shared sleeping spaces and limited ability to isolate sick family members. Traditional barbering and hairdressing shops using shared tools without sterilization adds another route of spread. Limited access to clean water in some peri-urban areas makes frequent handwashing difficult. Cultural gatherings, funerals, and church services involve close physical contact. Some people avoid clinics due to cost or stigma, allowing cases to go undetected.

Here are five practical steps you can take starting today.

Wash your hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer after touching shared surfaces at markets, lorry stations, and public transport. This single habit cuts your risk significantly.

Avoid sharing bedding, towels, clothing, or eating utensils with anyone who has an unexplained rash or blisters. If someone in your household is sick, use separate items and wash them in hot water.

Keep your barber or hairdresser's tools clean. Ask them to sterilize clippers and blades between customers. Carry your own tools when possible.

If you notice a rash with fever, visit the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital or your nearest health center early. Do not wait. Early reporting protects your family and neighbors.

Limit close physical contact with anyone showing symptoms, and encourage sick household members to cover their blisters and stay home until fully healed.