Liberia Reports Increase in Mpox Cases, Strengthens Response

By: Albert Fania

The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) has confirmed three
new Mpox cases, bringing the country’s total number of active cases to four.
All cases were confirmed through PCR testing, and no deaths have been reported.

This marks the first resurgence after a period of calm between December 2024
and March 2025, during which Liberia recorded zero new cases. Over 70
individuals recovered from the virus in that time, with no fatalities.

In response to rising Mpox cases in neighboring countries—Ghana, Togo, and
Sierra Leone—NPHIL has intensified surveillance, particularly at border points,
to curb cross-border transmission.

Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, Director General of NPHIL, noted that Liberia is
collaborating closely with Sierra Leone to bolster regional efforts in
monitoring and containing the outbreak.

The recent emergence of symptoms in a well-known Liberian comedian, who
shared a video on social media, has drawn public attention. The individual has
since been isolated, tested, and is receiving care. Health officials commended
the comedian for helping raise public awareness about Mpox.

To limit further spread, Dr. Yuah Nemah announced plans to vaccinate
high-risk populations and close contacts of confirmed cases. Dr. Kollie also
confirmed that an isolation facility at the Star Base is ready to accommodate
patients.

Representatives from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention
(Africa CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have praised Liberia’s
swift and coordinated response to the outbreak.

The public is urged to remain calm and follow all health guidelines to
prevent further transmission of the virus.