By Lamina Kamara
Health authorities have confirmed the first case of Monkey Pox in Sierra Leone. This is according to the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) in a joint press release dated Friday 10th January 2025.
It could be recalled that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Monkey Pox a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024.
“The case [in Sierra Leone] was confirmed on January 10th, 2025, following thorough testing at the 34
Infectious Disease Laboratory. The patient is a 27-vear-old man from the Western Area Rural District,” health authorities disclosed in the press release.
According to the Health Ministry and the National Public Health Agency, health teams are actively conducting contact tracing and investigations to identify possible exposures and prevent further spread.
“In response, the NPHA and MoH have swiftly activated the incident command system to contain the outbreak,” the press release noted, saying key actions underway include isolating the patient and providing medical care in a secure environment; conducting extensive contact tracing and monitoring identified contacts for 21 days; strengthening disease surveillance, especially in areas the patient recently visited, including Lungi; raising public awareness about Mpox symptoms, transmission, and prevention; supplying healthcare facilities with personal protective equipment and training health workers on
infection prevention.
Partnering with international health bodies like the WHO for technical and logistical support.
Monkey Pox, Mpox for short, is a viral illness transmitted from animals to humans and between people through close contact.
Common symptoms include fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes. “Anyone experiencing these symptoms should
immediately call 117 or visit the nearest health facility. Health teams are fully prepared to isolate suspected cases
and trace contacts to limit the spread,” health authorities advised.
To help stop the spread of Mpox, health authorities urge people to rely on accurate information from official health sources; wash hands regularly and practice good hygiene; call 117 if someone shows Mpox-like symptoms; avoid close contact with sick individuals and handling wild animals; show kindness and avoid stigmatizing those persons affected.
The NPHA and MoH noted that the health and safety of every Sierra Leonean remain their highest priority. “We encourage the public to stay calm, remain vigilant, and follow health guidelines. By working together, we can control this outbreak and protect our nation.”
Authorities assured the public that regular updates will be shared as the situation develops.