Liberia Confirms Four New Mpox Cases as Public Health Measures Intensify

Liberia has confirmed four new mpox cases across several counties. The NPHIL reassures that all patients are stable and being treated. Following a local celebrity’s infection, health authorities are working to provide guidance and support. Vaccination campaigns are underway to prevent further spread amidst rising cases in neighboring Sierra Leone.

In recent developments, Liberia has confirmed four new cases of mpox, causing officials to urge the public for calm. The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) Director General, Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, disclosed this during a joint press conference involving the Ministry of Health, Africa CDC, and World Health Organization. The newly reported cases are one from Sinoe County, two from Montserrado, and one from Margibi County.

Dr. Nyan reassured the public that all four patients are currently stable and being managed at designated healthcare facilities. He emphasized the importance of adhering to health precautions to limit the virus’s spread, stating, “All four patients are stable and receiving care at designated facilities.” The data presented indicated a total of 652 suspected cases from January 1, 2024, to May 11, 2025, with 78 confirmed as mpox infections. Importantly, only one active case remains in the country, with no related deaths reported.

Concerns began to rise after a local celebrity, T. Kelvin Nimely, known as Ambassador Jabateh, confirmed his mpox infection via social media. Nimely, who is currently quarantined at the Star Base facility, recounted his exposure to the virus during a performance in Lofa County. He described how he interacted closely with an ill individual during the event. “We both rubbed our sweat on each other while I was on stage,” he recalled while explaining the unsanitary conditions that may have contributed to his infection.

After feeling unwell following the event, Nimely sought treatment at multiple hospitals without improvement. It was only after posting his video that health officials initiated contact and advised him to undergo testing. “The rashes extended to under my feet; this was how I got infected, and I did the video. I didn’t want other people to get affected,” he stated, illustrating his concern for public health.

Maybel Mason, Communications Manager for Orange Liberia, confirmed that the company is aware of Nimely’s situation, emphasizing that other attendees on the trip have been tested and none were found infected. “All of the people that were with him on that trip got themselves checked as well and, fortunately and unfortunately, it is just him that is being infected by the mpox virus,” Mason said, assuring continued support for Nimely during his recovery.

As Liberia combs through these new cases, neighboring Sierra Leone reports a significant rise in mpox cases. Currently, a troubling total of 2045 cases have been reported in Freetown, alongside new ones surfacing in Liberia. The situation remains serious as 65 new cases and 11 fatalities were recorded across the border.

In response, Liberia’s Ministry of Health has obtained mpox vaccines from the Africa CDC. Dr. Yuah A. Nemah, head of the Expanded Program on Immunization, highlighted that vaccination efforts are already in place across several counties, including Grand Cape Mount and Nimba. Over 2,000 individuals have been vaccinated so far, focusing on high-risk groups, including health workers and those in direct contact with confirmed cases. Vaccination initiatives are set to expand into Lofa, Montserrado, and Margibi Counties soon as part of the ongoing strategy to curb the virus’s spread.

In summary, Liberia is grappling with new mpox cases while also managing concerns related to a rise in infections in neighboring Sierra Leone. As local health authorities work to ensure the care of infected patients and develop vaccination strategies, community engagement and awareness remain pivotal in controlling the outbreak. The cooperation between health officials and the public, highlighted by the increased vigilance following high-profile cases, shows a proactive approach in reaching ahead of the spread of this virus.

Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com