Sierra Leone Records Rapid Drop in Mpox Cases, Experts Urge Continued Vigilance
Sahid Bangura Sierra Leone is witnessing a significant decline in mpox infections, according to new data from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) released on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
In the week ending June 24, the country confirmed 256 new mpox cases, representing a 20% decrease from the 319 cases reported the previous week. Additionally, suspected cases saw a sharp decline, falling from 357 to 282, which marks a 21% reduction in notifications during the same timeframe.
“This is very encouraging,” commented Dr. Yap Boum, Deputy Head of the Incident Management Support Team at Africa CDC, as he highlighted the positive trend in disease transmission within the nation. The decline reflects the growing momentum in Sierra Leone’s battle against the virus, although experts stress the importance of maintaining vigilance.
Despite the encouraging statistics, Africa CDC cautions that surveillance in Sierra Leone remains predominantly passive. With test positivity rates exceeding 80%, many patients are diagnosed only after their symptoms have significantly worsened.
As multiple African nations, including Sierra Leone, continue to grapple with mpox outbreaks, the combination of decreasing case numbers and expanding vaccination efforts offers a hopeful outlook. The country has received mpox vaccine supplies through support from Africa CDC and partners like Gavi and UNICEF, targeting at-risk groups such as healthcare workers.
The recent decline in mpox cases indicates a crucial shift, with confirmed infections down by around 20% and suspected cases reduced by over 21% week on week. Public health officials emphasize that ongoing active testing, contact tracing, and vaccination are vital to continuing this downward trend.
Looking forward, authorities are urged to enhance surveillance, especially for early detection, and to capitalize on the momentum of vaccination efforts to drive cases even lower.
The reductions is as the results of lack of funds. If there was money for this Mpox, you see people dying day by day. If you don’t believe this, just ask Mr Ebola for confirmation.