The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has announced heightened monitoring of a surge in acute respiratory infections, particularly those caused by the Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), which is currently spreading across China and other parts of the Northern Hemisphere.

In a press release, the GHS clarified that this outbreak is not linked to a new virus, as was the case with COVID-19, but aligns with the typical seasonal increase of hMPV-related respiratory infections during the winter months.

The GHS emphasised the importance of public vigilance and preventive measures to mitigate potential risks.

In its statement, signed by Dr Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, Director-General of the GHS, the organisation noted that a recent meeting of the Public Health Emergency Operation Centre included updates from the National Influenza Centre (NIC).

It revealed that weekly respiratory samples from all 16 regions of Ghana have not identified any unusual respiratory pathogens, including hMPV.

To bolster readiness, the GHS has initiated various measures in collaboration with partners and in line with WHO guidelines.

Below is the full statement: