EPA-SL and Partners Launch Nationwide Integrated Campaign on Monkeypox Outbreak
Sia Lucy Kannah The Environmental Protection Agency Sierra Leone (EPA-SL), together with the National Public Health Agency and partners, through the One Health Framework, has conducted a nationwide integrated campaign on the monkeypox (Mpox) outbreak.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency Sierra Leone, Monkeypox (Mpox), being a disease that qualifies for the application of the One-Health Framework because it is unusual, infectious, tends to spread to neighbouring countries, and affects the health of humans, animals, and the environment, requires the integration of the human, animal, and environment sectors.
The One-Health Framework is an interdisciplinary approach to disease preparedness and response in the ECOWAS region. Furthermore, the One Health framework is a collaborative, multidisciplinary that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. It aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals, and ecosystems by integrating multiple sectors and disciplines to tackle health threats and promote well-being.
The Agency further added that (EPA-SL), there were messaging on rapid response to early detection, prevention, and health communication were central to the campaign objectives.
Additionally, a training for students as peer educators from Njala University, Mokonde, on the Mpox outbreak to raise awareness in their surrounding communities and report using the digital reporting tool (Kobo Collect) and another for Community Health Workers (CHWs) on Active Case Search (ACS) monitoring and reporting were all conducted.
Also, according to EPA-SL, Door-to-door sensitisation, engagement with key chiefdom stakeholders, monitoring of community health centres, and distribution of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials were also a part of activities implemented in the integrated campaign.
‘’ Conclusively, this demonstrates our commitment as a pillar of the One Health framework, and the country’s commitment to eradicating Mpox. ‘’ Stated EPA-SL.