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Ghana Detects First Case of Human Metapneumovirus – Health Minister Confirms
Ghana’s Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has confirmed the detection of the country’s first case of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in an elderly adult.
The case was identified as part of routine surveillance, with health officials testing 90 samples since January 2025.
Addressing Parliament during a briefing on the ongoing cholera and meningitis outbreaks, the minister assured lawmakers and the public that Ghana’s health systems remain vigilant in monitoring and containing respiratory viruses.
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hMPV is a respiratory virus known to cause cold-like symptoms, bronchitis, or pneumonia, especially in young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals.
“In response to a recent rise in respiratory infections in China and other temperate countries in December 2024, we initiated testing for hMPV as part of our routine disease surveillance. So far, 90 samples have been examined, and only one has tested positive—an elderly individual,” Akandoh revealed.
Despite the detection, the health minister emphasised that the risk of an hMPV outbreak in Ghana remains low, citing strengthened surveillance systems developed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have a robust monitoring system in place for respiratory viruses, including hMPV. Any detected case will be swiftly identified and managed to prevent further spread,” he reassured.
The Health Ministry continues to monitor and assess Ghana’s public health landscape to ensure timely interventions against potential disease outbreaks.
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