Liberia Confirms Four New Mpox Cases as Health Officials Mobilize Response

Liberia has confirmed four new mpox cases in Sinoe, Montserrado, and Margibi Counties, with health officials assuring the public that all patients are stable. The situation escalated after comedian T. Kelvin Nimely disclosed his mpox infection on social media. Vaccination efforts are underway in response to the regional health crisis, with the Ministry of Health collaborating on preventive measures and monitoring of affected individuals.

Liberia is facing a new health challenge, as Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, Director General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), confirmed four new mpox cases. The affected regions include Sinoe County with one case, two from Montserrado, and one from Margibi County. During a recent press conference alongside the Ministry of Health and other organizations, Dr. Nyan assured the public that these cases are being addressed, encouraging citizens to remain calm and to follow health safety guidelines to prevent further transmission of the virus.

Dr. Nyan reported that all patients are stable and receiving treatment in designated facilities. He stated that since January 1, 2024, there have been 652 suspected mpox cases in the country, with 572 samples tested and 78 confirmed. “Out of these 78 cases, we only have one active, so all 77 cases have recovered. To this date, Liberia has only one active case and zero deaths,” he explained, aiming to alleviate concerns as the country navigates this outbreak.

In a related event, public anxiety heightened following an announcement from T. Kelvin Nimely, known as Ambassador Jabateh, who disclosed on social media that he has mpox. During a phone interview, Nimely explained he contracted the virus while performing in Lofa County, where he encountered an individual with visible symptoms. “We both rubbed our sweat on each other while I was on stage,” he recounted, indicating the close proximity during their interaction led to his infection.

Nimely further detailed his health deterioration after the performance. Despite initial misdiagnosis, including treatments for typhoid and malaria, he eventually identified the symptoms as mpox. He described the rashes spreading to his feet and posted a video online to warn others, prompting health officials to reach out to him. “I didn’t want other people to get affected,” he stressed, highlighting his proactive approach to notifying the public.

Maybel Mason, Communications Manager for Orange Liberia, confirmed that Nimely’s colleagues from the trip are being monitored for symptoms. “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 noted. She emphasized that the company is actively supporting the comedian during this health crisis.

The new mpox cases in Liberia coincide with a concerning rise in infections in Sierra Leone, which is closely situated. Sierra Leone’s National Public Health Agency reports over 2,045 confirmed cases, alongside 65 new infections, indicating a regional health threat that may influence Liberia’s situation.

In response, Liberia has received mpox vaccines from the Africa CDC as a strategic move to combat the virus. Dr. Yuah A. Nemah, Director of the Expanded Program on Immunization, shared that vaccination efforts are underway, targeting frontline workers and confirmed case contacts. He stated that over 2,000 individuals in several counties, including Grand Cape Mount and Nimba, have already received the vaccine, emphasizing the importance of strict protocols during vaccination campaigns that will extend to communities facing heightened risks.

The emergence of four new mpox cases in Liberia underscores the ongoing public health challenges the nation faces amid a wider regional outbreak. With one active case remaining and recovery rates appearing encouraging, health officials are nonetheless vigilant. As they implement vaccination campaigns, raised awareness and adherence to health guidelines will be crucial in preventing the virus’s further spread. That said, Nimely’s experience has sparked public engagement and urged further vigilance from the Ministry of Health.

Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com