Sierra Leone has officially declared the end of its Mpox outbreak, following months of coordinated public health interventions that led to thousands of recoveries and a nationwide vaccination campaign, the health minister said.
Health Minister Dr. Austin H. Demby announced the declaration, calling it “a defining moment in Sierra Leone’s public health journey,” as authorities confirmed that transmission has been halted.
“It is my solemn duty and my privilege to officially declare that the Mpox outbreak in Sierra Leone has ended,” Demby said.
According to official data, the outbreak recorded 5,382 recoveries and 60 deaths. More than 186,000 people were vaccinated as part of the government’s response, which included surveillance, community engagement and expanded access to treatment.
Health officials said the vaccination programme played a critical role in curbing the spread of the virus, particularly in high-risk communities. International partners and local health workers supported the response through logistics, public awareness campaigns and medical care.
While declaring the outbreak over, the health ministry said surveillance would continue to prevent a resurgence, urging the public to maintain basic hygiene practices and report suspected cases promptly.
Sierra Leone’s response comes as several African countries continue to battle Mpox outbreaks, with health experts stressing the importance of early detection, vaccination and cross-border cooperation to contain the disease.
By Jane Kamara
