Sierra Leone Declares State of Emergency Over Second Mpox Case in 4 days
Health authorities in Sierra Leone have declared a state of emergency following the confirmation of a second case of mpox in less than four days.
The health ministry revealed that neither of the two cases had recent contact with infected animals or other sick individuals. While the first patient had traveled to Lungi in Port Loko District between December 26 and January 6, the second case involved no recent travel. Both patients are currently receiving treatment in a hospital in the capital, Freetown.
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, was first identified in 1958 and historically affected central and West Africa through contact with infected animals. However, global outbreaks in 2022 revealed new transmission routes, including sexual contact, with cases reported in over 70 countries.
Sierra Leone’s history with deadly viral outbreaks includes the devastating 2014 Ebola epidemic, which resulted in nearly 4,000 deaths and claimed 7% of the nation’s healthcare workforce. This latest health emergency underscores the country’s vulnerability to infectious diseases.
Health authorities are intensifying efforts to contain the spread of mpox, with a focus on public awareness, contact tracing, and ensuring swift treatment for those affected.