The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) has confirmed a second case of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox), marking the official declaration of an outbreak in the country. This new case, located in Lofa County, involves a two-year-old male who presented with fever, rash, and other symptoms commonly associated with the virus. Four contacts have been traced and identified, while the young patient is currently in isolation, receiving home-based care.
This development follows the detection of Liberia’s first Mpox case in Sinoe County, which occurred after the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (ACDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on August 14, 2024.
With the confirmation of the second case, health authorities are ramping up their efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the virus. The NPHIL has activated the National Incident Management System (IMS), which will play a central role in coordinating the country’s outbreak preparedness and response. This system will operate in collaboration with international partners, the Ministry of Health, and local communities.
In a swift response, county health and surveillance officers across Liberia have intensified their activities, as sporadic suspected cases of Mpox have begun emerging in various regions. Public health awareness campaigns are also being scaled up to inform citizens about how the virus is transmitted and how to protect themselves.
Mpox is a zoonotic viral disease, meaning it can be transmitted between animals and humans, with symptoms that include fever, headache, muscle aches, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. In recent months, the virus has gained global attention due to its increased spread across several regions. The WHO and ACDC’s declaration of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency highlights the severity of the situation, as nations work together to curb the virus.
NPHIL and the Ministry of Health have urged the public to take proactive measures in preventing the person-to-person and community transmission of Mpox. The public is advised to adhere to health and sanitation protocols, including avoiding close contact with individuals showing symptoms of the virus and practicing proper hygiene.
As Liberia confronts this new public health threat, the role of each citizen becomes crucial. Following preventive guidelines, supporting contact tracing, and reporting any suspected cases can help curb the spread of Mpox in the country.
The nation now stands at a critical juncture, and with a coordinated response, Liberia aims to limit the impact of this outbreak and safeguard public health.
