The Health Minister, Mr Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has declared that a case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been confirmed in Ghana, He made this declaration when he was briefing Parliament on Tuesday, February 18 2025 on the ongoing outbreaks of cholera and meningitis,
The case, detected in an elderly adult, was identified from 90 samples tested as part of routine surveillance following a rise in respiratory infections in China and other countries in December 2024
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), is a respiratory virus that can cause severe illness in vulnerable individuals. HMPV also causes cold-like symptoms, bronchitis, and pneumonia, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
“In response to a recent increase in respiratory cases in China and other temperate countries, we commenced testing for HMPV in January 2025. So far, 90 samples have been analysed, with only one returning positive,” Mr. Akandoh revealed.
Mr Minister assured Ghanaians to remain calm saying, the risk of an HMPV outbreak in Ghana remains low, assuring that the country’s disease surveillance systems have been significantly strengthened since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have a robust monitoring system in place for respiratory viruses, including HMPV. Any detected case will be quickly identified and managed to prevent further spread,” he said.
Health authorities are urging the public to observe good hygiene practices and seek medical attention if they experience severe respiratory symptoms.
