Situational context
Mpox is a zoonotic viral disease transmitted from animal to human with symptoms lasting between 14 and 21 days. Severe cases occur more commonly among children and those with pre-existing health conditions. However, the case fatality rate varies widely between epidemics but has been less than 10% in documented events, mostly among young children (WHO, Mpox 2024 fact sheet).
On August 13th and 14th, 2024 respectively, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the World Health Organization declared the Mpox outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security and a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to increase in the number of cases reported across the globe.
As of August 30, 2024, thirteen (13) member states of the Africa Union (AU), including Liberia, reported 5356 confirmed cases including 32 deaths. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains the most affected country in the African region with 90% of reported confirmed cases (WHO Regional bulletin, Agu 30, 2024).
Mpox is one of the immediately reportable priority diseases in Liberia. Since 2016, sporadic cases have been reported across the country. Between November 2016 and August 2024, 385 suspected cases, including 34 laboratory-confirmed cases, have been reported, with no deaths recorded.
On Aug 24, 2024 a 7-year-old female patient (LGW), a resident of Doodwicken Community, Jedepo Health District, Sinoe County, presented to Doodwicken Clinic with complain of headache, fever, lack of appetite, generalized body pain and rashes. Investigation revealed that the signs and symptoms begun on Aug 20, 2024. Supportive treatment was initiated, and the patient was placed in temporary isolation. The patient is clinically stable.
A total of thirty (30) contacts (Male:13, Female: 17) were line listed and risk assessment conducted. The risk categorization showed ten (10) high risk and 20 low risk contacts. Meanwhile, all contacts are under active follow-up.
On August 29th, 2024, a 2-year-old male child visited the Yeala clinic, in Zorzor district, Lofa County presenting with fever, headache, and rashes. On investigation, it was revealed that the case onset of symptoms was August 27, 2024. Sample was collected and sent to the NPHRL on August 30, 2024. Results was released on September 3, for Mpox.
