Sierra Leone has declared a public health emergency following the confirmation of two mpox cases in the country. Health Minister Austin Demby made the announcement on Monday after the second case of the viral disease was reported.
“The confirmation of two cases of mpox in the country has prompted immediate action as mandated by the Public Health Act,” Demby stated during a press briefing in Freetown.
The country reported its first confirmed mpox case last week, marking a significant development since the African Union’s health watchdog declared a public health emergency over the disease in 2022.
The second case involved a 21-year-old man who exhibited symptoms on January 6, according to the National Public Health Agency.
Health officials noted that neither of the infected individuals had recent contact with animals or other known cases of mpox, raising concerns about potential community transmission.
Authorities are now ramping up surveillance and public health measures to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.
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