AYV News, August 14, 2024
The Government of Sierra Leone, through its National Public Health Agency (NPHA) and the Ministry of Health (MOH), has initiated a series of preventive measures to guard against the spread of Monkeypox (Mpox) within the country, despite no confirmed cases being reported so far.
As neighboring nations grapple with rising Mpox outbreaks, Sierra Leonean authorities remain on high alert. In a press release issued on Monday, the NPHA underscored the critical need for vigilance and community involvement to keep the virus at bay.
The agency noted that Mpox, a viral zoonotic disease, can be transmitted from animals to humans, primarily through close contact with an infected person, animal, or contaminated surfaces. Common symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
In response to the potential threat, the government has rolled out several key initiatives aimed at bolstering surveillance, fostering community engagement, enhancing healthcare preparedness, and strengthening regional cooperation. These measures are designed to ensure the rapid identification and containment of any suspected Mpox cases.
Public health officials have urged the populace to adhere to precautionary guidelines, including avoiding contact with wild animals, maintaining good hygiene, practicing food safety, and promptly reporting any symptoms associated with the virus.
While Sierra Leone remains free of confirmed Mpox cases, the government continues to monitor the situation closely, ready to take swift action if necessary.
The NPHA has promised regular updates and called on citizens to stay vigilant in preventing the virus’s spread.