The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a public health alert regarding an increase in acute respiratory infections in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly linked to the Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China.
Reports indicate that this surge began in December 2024. Although hMPV is not a new virus—unlike COVID-19—it has raised concerns due to its role in the rising number of respiratory infections during the winter season.
Acute respiratory infections are often seasonal, with cases typically increasing during colder months. This trend aligns with current global reports.
A recent update from the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 7, 2025, following a risk assessment, noted that the surge in acute respiratory infections and related pathogens across the Northern Hemisphere is expected during this time of year and is not unusual.
In response to these developments, the Ghana Health Service convened a Public Health Emergency Operation Centre meeting to assess the situation. Updates from the National Influenza Centre (NIC) confirmed that weekly respiratory samples collected across all 16 regions in Ghana have not detected any unusual respiratory pathogens, including hMPV.
However, as a precaution, GHS has introduced several measures to strengthen the country’s preparedness and response to any potential outbreak. These measures include enhancing surveillance at all levels for acute respiratory diseases, expanding laboratory testing capabilities across the country, regularly assessing the respiratory health situation in the Northern Hemisphere, and increasing public education on preventive health measures.
The Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes infections similar to the common cold. Its symptoms range from mild to severe and are transmitted mainly through inhalation of respiratory droplets. Common symptoms include cough, fever, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, and headaches. In more severe cases, individuals may experience persistent coughing, breathing difficulties, noisy breathing, prolonged fever, chest pain, fatigue, and dehydration. People with underlying health conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), weakened immune systems, and the elderly (over 65 years) are more vulnerable to severe illness caused by hMPV.
Although the infection is generally self-limiting and treatment is mainly supportive, the GHS stresses the importance of preventive measures. The public is advised to practice good respiratory hygiene, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, maintaining proper hand hygiene, avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands, wearing facemasks when necessary, seeking early medical attention when symptoms appear, and eating fruits and vegetables to boost immunity.
Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, assured the public that the necessary measures are being taken to safeguard the health of Ghanaians. He encouraged everyone to stay informed and adhere to health guidelines. The GHS will continue to monitor the situation and provide timely updates to ensure the safety and well-being of the population.
