Alarming Surge in MPOX Cases raises Concerns

Sierra Leone is facing a worrying increase in MPOX infections.Recent screening efforts targeting households of suspected cases revealed 177 new infections over a single weekend. This surge underscores the severity of the outbreak, prompting intensified public health interventions.

The nation declared a health emergency in January following the initial detection of MPOX cases, aiming to mobilize resources against this perhaps deadly viral disease. however, the recent spike indicates that containment efforts are facing significant challenges.

Our caregivers have discovered nearly 100 cases per day after searching the homes of people suspected of having been infected with the virus.

Amanda Clemens, social mobilization for the vaccination campaign

According to the National Public Health Agency, the country has recorded 763 MPOX cases since the beginning of the year, with six fatalities. While 282 individuals have recovered, the high infection rate remains a major concern. The rapid spread highlights the urgent need for enhanced surveillance, testing, and treatment strategies.

Vaccination Campaign and Treatment Center Expansion

Freetown, the capital city, has reported the highest number of MPOX cases. In response, the government has established four treatment centers in the capital since February to improve patient care and isolation. These centers aim to provide timely medical assistance and prevent further transmission within the community.

A vaccination campaign was launched earlier this month, following the arrival of 61,000 vaccine doses provided by the World Health Organization (WHO). As of the latest reports, over 1,000 individuals, primarily healthcare professionals, have been vaccinated.Prioritizing healthcare workers is crucial to ensure the continued functioning of the healthcare system during the outbreak.

However, challenges persist. Sallu Lansana from the Ministry of Health’s vaccination service notes that disinformation and fear surrounding the MPOX virus continue to prevent some people from consulting a doctor. This hesitancy can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, potentially contributing to the further spread of the disease.

Global Context and Lessons from Past Epidemics

MPOX, caused by a virus related to smallpox, typically presents with fever and skin lesions. While initially confined to a few African countries, the disease began spreading globally in 2022, affecting developed nations that had previously not encountered the virus.The WHO declared its highest level of alert for the MPOX epidemic in 2024, underscoring the international concern surrounding the outbreak.

Sierra Leone’s experience with the Ebola epidemic a decade ago, which claimed approximately 4,000 lives, including a significant percentage of healthcare workers, serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of infectious diseases. The lessons learned from the Ebola crisis,including the importance of community engagement,rapid response,and robust healthcare infrastructure,are crucial in the fight against MPOX.

Globally, as of April 2025, the WHO reports over 90,000 confirmed cases of MPOX across 110 countries, with a case fatality rate of approximately 0.3%. While the majority of cases have been reported in developed nations, the outbreak in Sierra Leone highlights the vulnerability of resource-limited settings and the need for sustained international support.

Moving Forward: Addressing Challenges and Strengthening Response

Addressing the MPOX outbreak in Sierra Leone requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes:

• Combating Misinformation: Implementing targeted interaction strategies to address public fears and promote early testing and treatment.
• Enhancing Surveillance: Strengthening surveillance systems to detect and track new cases effectively.
• Expanding Vaccination Coverage: Increasing vaccination rates, notably among high-risk populations.
• Improving Healthcare Access: Ensuring access to quality healthcare services, including treatment and supportive care, for all affected individuals.
• International Collaboration: Fostering collaboration with international partners, such as the WHO, to secure resources and technical assistance.

By addressing these challenges and strengthening its response, Sierra Leone can mitigate the impact of the MPOX outbreak and protect the health and well-being of its citizens. The global community must also remain vigilant and provide ongoing support to countries facing similar challenges.