National Public Health Institute Of Liberia (NPHIL) Alerts Public on Monkeypox Outbreak Amid Rising Cases in Liberia and Neighboring Countries.
By: Melvin Flomo
The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), under the leadership of its newly appointed Director General, Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, has confirmed an outbreak of the Monkeypox virus (Mpox) in several countries across the WHO African Region, with cases primarily in Central and West Africa. During a recent press conference, Dr. Nyan emphasized that the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified this outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (2005).
Dr. Nyan lamented that, Liberia has reported five confirmed cases of Mpox in three different counties since the beginning of 2024. He further noted that new cases have also been identified in neighboring countries, including Nigeria and Ivory Coast, raising concerns about the potential spread of the virus within the region.
Meanwhile, Mpox, commonly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease closely related to the virus that causes smallpox. The disease manifests with symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash that often progresses to pustules. The illness typically lasts between two to four weeks, with most patients recovering without severe complications.
Moreover, During the press briefing, Dr. Nyan outlined several key personal hygiene and protective measures that the public should adopt to minimize the risk of contracting the virus. These measures include regular handwashing with soap and water or the use of hand sanitizer, which can significantly reduce the transmission of the virus.
In addition to hand hygiene, Dr. Nyan advised the public to avoid close contact with individuals infected with Mpox and to steer clear of animals that might carry the virus. Healthcare workers and others at risk of exposure were urged to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and masks, to safeguard themselves.
Dr. Nyan also highlighted the importance of cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may have been contaminated by the virus. This measure, he said, is crucial in preventing the spread of the virus within communities and healthcare settings.
Nevertheless, in response to the outbreak, NPHIL is collaborating closely with its partners to address the situation. Dr. Nyan assured the public that preventive measures will be implemented at the Roberts International Airport and other major transit points to curb the spread of Mpox within and beyond Liberia borders.
However, the public is encouraged to stay informed and adhere to the preventive guidelines issued by health authorities as the country works to manage this public health challenge.
Keep following Teeria Online Television
About The Author
