By Juliana E.P. Kabba
Sierra Leone has confirmed its first case of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), prompting immediate action from the country’s health authorities. The National Public Health Agency (NPHA) and the Ministry of Health and Sanitation released a statement on January 10, 2025, confirming the case was detected at the 34 Military Hospital in the Western Area Rural District.
The patient, a 27-year-old male, is currently undergoing treatment in isolation, as health officials work tirelessly to prevent further spread of the disease. In response, the Ministry of Health has launched an intensive contact tracing operation to identify and monitor anyone who may have been exposed to the virus.
Mpox is a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, typically presenting with flu-like symptoms, painful rashes, and swollen lymph nodes. The virus is transmitted through close physical contact with an infected person, bodily fluids, or contaminated items such as clothing or bedding.
The Ministry of Health and the NPHA have activated emergency response protocols to contain the outbreak. Measures include isolating the patient, equipping healthcare facilities with essential resources, and intensifying public awareness campaigns. A joint task force has also been set up to monitor the situation and provide real-time updates.
During a press briefing, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Health emphasized the need for public cooperation, urging citizens to adhere to recommended safety measures. “We are working tirelessly to ensure the case is contained, and it is crucial that the public remains calm and follows the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones,” the spokesperson said.
Authorities have advised the public to avoid close contact with infected individuals, maintain proper hygiene, and report any symptoms such as fever, rashes, or swollen lymph nodes to the nearest healthcare facility.
The Ministry reassured the public that adequate resources have been allocated to manage the situation. “We have activated our national response system, and all health facilities are on high alert,” the statement added.
Sierra Leone’s confirmation of Mpox comes as other West African nations have also reported cases, raising concerns about its regional spread. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern in 2022, further underscoring the gravity of the situation.
While the mortality rate for Mpox is relatively low compared to other infectious diseases, its impact can be significant, especially in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure.
This situation marks a critical test for Sierra Leone’s public health system, which has faced challenges in the past with the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks. Experts stress the importance of timely interventions, public education, and international collaboration to effectively manage the crisis.
The Ministry of Health and Sanitation has pledged to keep the public informed as the situation develops and has called for local and international support to manage the outbreak.
As Sierra Leone confronts this emerging health threat, authorities are urging citizens to prioritize prevention, maintain solidarity, and help contain the spread of Mpox.
More updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
