Two Mpox cases prompt emergency in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone has declared a public health emergency following the confirmation of two mpox cases, sparking concern.

The country’s Ministry of Health confirmed the first mpox case on January 10, prompting immediate measures to curb the spread.

In a statement released on X, the ministry outlined key strategies, emphasizing heightened surveillance and efforts to break the transmission chain.

Mpox, a viral disease related to smallpox, presents with high fever and skin lesions called vesicles. The virus has spread globally, with a significant outbreak in 2022 affecting over 70 countries.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024.

Sierra Leone’s decision to declare an emergency echoes the nation’s history with outbreaks, as it was the epicenter of the 2014 Ebola crisis.

Although mpox has caused considerable alarm, the Democratic Republic of Congo remains the worst-hit country in Africa, reporting over 49,000 suspected cases and 1,100 deaths since January 2024.

The African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to monitor the situation closely as Sierra Leone intensifies its efforts to prevent further spread.

The government’s swift response aims to contain the virus and protect public health, with experts stressing the importance of vigilance and swift action in containing outbreaks.

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