Sierra Leone has declared a public health emergency after two cases of mpox were reported. underscoring the need to strengthen border controls and testing capabilities and launch a national awareness campaign.

The confirmation of two cases of monkeypox has prompted us to take immediate action and declare a public health emergency in the country, as this will allow us to mobilise the necessary resources to contain the disease, prevent its spread and provide quality care to those affected,’ said Sierra Leone’s Minister of Health, Austin Dembe.

Last weekend, Sierra Leone announced its first case of monkeypox since the world went on high alert for the deadly viral disease in 2024.