The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) has confirmed four active cases of Mpox in Liberia, with infections identified in Montserrado (2), Margibi (1), and Sinoe (1) counties.
The confirmation has prompted intensified surveillance and public health response in the affected regions.
Speaking at a press conference in Paynesville on Sunday, NPHIL Director General Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan called for calm and cooperation, assuring the public that the situation remains under control.
“Between January 1, 2024, and May 11, 2025, Liberia recorded 652 suspected Mpox cases. Of these, 572 samples were tested, and 78 were confirmed positive across 14 of the country’s 15 counties,” Dr. Nyan stated. “All four current patients are in stable condition and receiving care at designated health facilities.”
Dr. Nyan emphasized that health teams are actively engaged in contact tracing, case monitoring, and community awareness to curb further spread.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant, report symptoms early, and adhere to preventive measures such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
Montserrado, Margibi, and Sinoe have been designated priority areas, with health teams mobilized to enhance detection, testing, and education efforts.
“We’re on high alert,” said Dr. Jewel Tarpeh Kollie, Montserrado County Health Officer. “We’re collaborating with partners to ensure swift isolation of suspected cases and prompt testing. Our health system is prepared to respond effectively.”
Of the 78 confirmed Mpox cases so far, 77 patients have recovered, and no deaths have been reported.
The regional distribution of confirmed cases includes: Nimba (26), Montserrado (6), Lofa (7), Bong (7), Rivercess (7), Sinoe (6), Grand Bassa (6), Margibi (4), Maryland (2), River Gee (1), Grand Kru (1), Bomi (1), Grand Cape Mount (3), and Grand Gedeh (1).
Public attention heightened after well-known comedian Jabateh disclosed in a viral video that he had contracted Mpox and was undergoing treatment.
“I got Mpox, and I’m taking treatment,” he said, prompting a wave of discussion around stigma, transparency, and the importance of seeking medical care.
“His honesty is both rare and courageous,” said Dr. Kollie. “It sends a strong message: Mpox is treatable, and no one should feel ashamed to seek help.”
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease that causes fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and skin rashes. It spreads primarily through close physical contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials.
In partnership with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Liberia has received 10,800 doses of Mpox vaccine. So far, over 2,000 frontline and high-risk individuals, including health workers and laboratory personnel, have been vaccinated.
“We’re not doing mass vaccination at this stage,” said Dr. Yuah Nemah, Director of the Expanded Program on Immunization. “We’re focusing on those with the highest exposure risk.”
Vaccination efforts in Montserrado are scheduled to officially begin on Monday, May 19.
Given Mpox activity in neighboring Sierra Leone, Liberia has intensified surveillance along its borders. Rapid response teams have been stationed at key entry points in counties like Lofa and Nimba to screen travelers and monitor for symptoms.
Additionally, the Ministry of Health has reactivated its emergency hotline (4455) to enable the public to report suspected cases and access guidance.
“We must work together to contain this outbreak,” said Dr. Nyan. “Avoid contact with symptomatic individuals, practice good hygiene, and seek medical attention early.”
Health authorities continue to urge the public to rely on official information, remain calm, and support ongoing response efforts aimed at protecting communities across Liberia.
