at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on Wilkinson Road, Freetown. The event brought together representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Africa CDC, US CDC, bloggers, journalists, and Civil Society Organizations. The briefing provided updates on the outbreak and outlined strategies to control and prevent further spread of the disease.
Executive Director Brig. Prof. Foday Sahr updated attendees on the Mpox situation, confirming two laboratory-confirmed cases. On August 13, 2024, the WHO Director-General had declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The first confirmed case in Sierra Leone was a trader who tested positive on January 10, 2025, with symptoms beginning on January 6. The second case involved a 21-year-old male residing on Sheriff Drive, Lumley, who also developed symptoms on January 6, 2025.
The NPHA has implemented several response measures, including case management, contact tracing, enhanced surveillance, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with local and international partners. The agency urges the public to report symptoms, avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, and maintain good hygiene practices. The NPHA and MoH, leveraging lessons from previous outbreaks like Ebola and COVID-19, are committed to protecting public health and ensuring safety for all Sierra Leoneans.
Miss Rachael Kuyembeh, NPHA Public Relations Coordinator, expressed gratitude to healthcare workers, partners, and stakeholders for their dedication. She encouraged the public to stay informed, follow health guidelines, and work together to safeguard national well-being.
Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby declared:
“Distinguished Members of the Press, Partners, and Citizens of Sierra Leone, the confirmation of two Mpox cases has necessitated immediate action. Under the Public Health Act, and in consultation with His Excellency the President, Rtd. Brigadier Dr. Julius Maada Bio, I am officially declaring a public health emergency.”
He emphasized that this declaration underscores the government’s commitment to mobilizing resources, containing the disease, and providing quality care. Enhanced surveillance systems are already detecting, tracking, and isolating suspected cases. He advised the public to call 117 a free toll number if they have or see anyone showing symptoms of MPox or go up the nearest health facility.
President Bio has fully endorsed the emergency declaration, urging national unity and adherence to health guidelines. Dr. Demby highlighted that Sierra Leone’s experiences managing past outbreaks have strengthened its public health response, ensuring readiness to address this emerging threat.
This coordinated approach reflects Sierra Leone’s determination to effectively manage and contain the Mpox outbreak with the support of its partners.
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