Sierra Leone Police take Monkey pox vaccines
By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
May 1, 2025 the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) Hospital in Kingtom has launched a nationwide vaccination campaign to combat the spread of Monkeypox (M-Pox), prioritizing frontline police officers and extending coverage to divisions, stations, and posts across the country, this proactive initiative underscores the SLP’s commitment to safeguarding both its personnel and the public amid a recent outbreak.
The campaign, which began earlier this month, has already vaccinated thousands of police officers, according to hospital management. It forms a cornerstone of the SLP’s comprehensive strategy to address the Monkeypox outbreak, combining vaccination with enhanced preventive measures and public awareness efforts.
Dr. John M. Konteh, Head of the SLP Hospital in Kingtom, outlined the multifaceted approach. “In response to the outbreak, SLP leadership has mandated robust preventive measures, including enhanced screening, improved hygiene practices, and widespread public awareness campaigns,” he said, our goal is to protect our personnel and prevent community transmission.”
To support the vaccination drive, the SLP Hospital has established a fully equipped isolation facility at Kingtom, capable of managing both suspected and confirmed Monkeypox cases, the center adheres to national and international health standards, ensuring timely medical intervention for affected individuals. “This facility strengthens our capacity to respond effectively to the outbreak, Dr. Konteh noted.
The SLP is also intensifying sensitization efforts to educate officers and the public about Monkeypox symptoms, the importance of hygiene, and the need for prompt medical care. Informational campaigns are being rolled out across police stations and communities, emphasizing preventive practices to curb transmission.
Dr. Konteh urged full participation in the vaccination effort, we encourage all police officers to get vaccinated and adhere strictly to health protocols, he said, their health is critical to maintaining public safety and security.
The SLP’s initiative aligns seamlessly with the Ministry of Health and Sanitation’s national strategy to contain the Monkeypox outbreak and protect Sierra Leoneans. The campaign reflects a coordinated effort to address the public health crisis while reinforcing the SLP’s role as a frontline institution in national emergencies.
Public health experts have praised the SLP’s approach as a model of institutional readiness and collaboration, the police-led vaccination campaign demonstrates how strategic partnerships and proactive measures can mitigate health emergencies, said a representative from the ministry of health and Sanitation, it sets a precedent for other institutions to follow.
As the campaign expands to reach all police personnel and potentially the broader community, the SLP Hospital remains committed to leading the fight against Monkeypox. By combining vaccination, isolation, and education, the initiative not only protects officers but also contributes to Sierra Leone’s broader goal of ensuring public health and safety.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Friday, May 5th, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
