Ms Adjapong said although monkeypox (mpox) was generally less deadly than smallpox, the disease could lead to severe complications such as preterm birth, still-birth, and even miscarriage for the mother during pregnancy.
Speaking at a sensitisation exercise for stakeholders organised by the Tema Metropolitan Health Directorate, she emphasised that the disease could be dangerous, especially for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children, and people with weak immune systems.
She said pregnant women were particularly at risk because their immune systems were naturally lowered to support the developing foetus, and this makes it easier for the virus to spread in the body, causing serious health issues.
She recommended avoiding crowded areas, maintaining good hygiene at all times, and ensuring that family members or caregivers were also practising proper hygiene, in addition to attending regular antenatal check-ups and discussing any unusual symptoms with their healthcare providers.
The disease control officer explained that if a pregnant woman becomes infected with mpox, the virus could cross the placenta and affect the unborn child, which could result in preterm delivery or even pregnancy loss.
She said symptoms of mpox usually begin with fever, headaches, muscle pain, and swollen lymph nodes, adding that early signs are followed by the appearance of a rash that often spreads to other parts of the body quickly.
She explained that the rash turns into fluid-filled blisters that eventually crust over and fall off, saying that in some cases, the rash might be found on the genitals, making it painful and difficult for infected persons to move around comfortably.
Ms Adjapong stressed the importance of early detection and isolation. “If you experience any of these symptoms, especially the rash, visit a health facility immediately for testing and care.”
She outlined simple but effective prevention measures which included avoiding close contact with people showing symptoms of mpox, frequent handwashing with soap and water, using hand sanitisers and face masks and avoiding the handling of wild animals, particularly rodents and primates, which could carry the virus.
The disease control officer emphasised that while mpox was preventable, it required a shared responsibility to combat it and urged the public, especially pregnant women, to stay informed and cautious.
GNA
