Sierra Leone Declares Emergency After Confirming Second Mpox Case

January 14, 2025

Sierra Leone has declared a state of emergency following the confirmation of a second mpox case within four days, according to health authorities.

The health ministry reported that neither patient had recent contact with infected animals or individuals. However, the first case involved limited travel to the airport town of Lungi in the northern Port Loko District between December 26 and January 6. Both patients are currently receiving treatment in the capital, Freetown.

Mpox, initially identified in 1958 during outbreaks in monkeys, was predominantly seen in central and West Africa among individuals with close contact with infected animals. In 2022, the virus was confirmed to spread via sexual contact, leading to outbreaks in over 70 countries, including those with no previous cases.

This situation brings back memories of Sierra Leone's battle with the 2014 Ebola outbreak, the deadliest in history, which claimed nearly 4,000 lives in the country and severely impacted its healthcare system.

Authorities have urged vigilance as they work to contain the virus and prevent further spread.