NPHIL Ramps Up Surveillance, Issues Guidelines as Monkeypox Virus Reaches Liberia

By Julius T. Jaesen, II
Managing Editor

Monrovia, Liberia – August 15, 2024: The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) has issued an alert regarding the recent outbreak of the Monkeypox virus (Mpox) in multiple countries within the WHO African Region, particularly in Central and West Africa. This outbreak has been classified as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO), according to NPHIL newly appointed Director-General Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan.

Since the beginning of 2024, Liberia has recorded five confirmed cases of Mpox across three counties, Dr. Nyan disclosed. He also noted that countries such as Nigeria and neighboring Côte d’Ivoire have recently reported new cases, raising concerns about the potential for further spread within the region.

Dr. Nyan explained that Mpox is a disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same viral family as smallpox. The virus is transmitted through several routes, including direct skin-to-skin contact, sexual contact involving bodily fluids or lesions from an infected person, and respiratory secretions. Symptoms of Mpox can include fever, chills, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches.

In response to the outbreak, Dr. Nyan emphasised that NPHIL will intensify its surveillance efforts and strengthen its outbreak preparedness plan. “The institute will work closely with the Ministry of Health to implement specific response measures aimed at preventing the spread of Mpox in Liberia”, Dr. Nyan asserted.

“The nature of this outbreak and its rapid spread across several countries demand that we remain vigilant and prepared,” Dr. Nyan stated. He urged the public to adhere to preventive measures, such as frequent hand-washing, avoiding sexual contact with individuals suspected of having Mpox symptoms, avoiding close contact with suspected cases, and refraining from contact with animals.

Dr. Nyan further advised that anyone experiencing or observing Mpox symptoms should report immediately to the nearest medical facility for evaluation and care.

This announcement comes as health authorities in Liberia remain on high alert, with NPHIL and the Ministry of Health actively coordinating efforts to safeguard public health amid the ongoing regional outbreak.