Liberia Prepares Against Mockeypox Outbreak -Says NPHIL DG, Provides Urgent Update

By: Lincoln H. Dalieh

MONROVIA – In a press briefing held yesterday at the Headquarters of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), the institute’s Director-General Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, reaffirmed reports of another outbreak of a deadly disease in the country which he referred to as Monkeypox, stating the Liberia’s preparedness to combat the pestilence, and provided an urgent update on the outbreak of the disease that has recently gained global attention as well.

   Dr. Nyan, a Liberian Scientist, began his media engagement by highlighting the crucial role NPHIL plays in Liberia’s healthcare system, particularly in disease surveillance and control.

   With a history of monitoring and responding to public health threats, NPHIL’s role is pivotal in managing outbreaks and ensuring timely interventions. Established after the outbreak of the Ebola Disease that killed hundreds of thousands of Liberians, the NPHIL has been engaged with keeping health surveillance and combating outbreaks, typical of which is the COVID-19 Virus.

    In the meantime, Monkeypox has been present in Liberia since the 1970s, with intermittent cases reported globally.

   However, the recent surge has prompted international concern, particularly with rising cases in neighboring African countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Kenya.

    The concern of NPHIL heightened when the outbreak of the disease was also reported in neighboring West African Nigeria and Ivory Coast, which the NPHIL Director General noted that Nigeria and Ivory Coast have reported the highest numbers of cases in West Africa, with Ghana also experiencing a few cases of the outbreak in the region.

   This regional spread is particularly concerning due to Liberia’s close proximity and trade relationships with these countries.

   “Our country must remain vigilant, especially given our past experiences,” Dr. Nyan emphasized, citing “The Ebola outbreak in 2024 and the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic” which he said “taught us the importance of preparedness and swift action. We cannot afford to be complacent.”

   In response to the outbreak, NPHIL has implemented a comprehensive strategy to combat the spread of Monkeypox, he said, noting, “This includes enhancing surveillance systems, coordinating with the National Port Authority, and strengthening monitoring at key border points.”

  The Liberia Health official and scientist maintained that efforts are underway at the Roberts International Airport (RIA), major border crossings, and coastal entry points to prevent further spread of the pandemic.

   Dr. Nyan indicated that Liberia had already detected six cases of Monkeypox before the international alarm by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa CDC. Currently, there is one active case of Monkeypox diagnosed in the country from Sinoe County, and the patient is receiving treatment in that county.

  “We have set in motion our response mechanisms and civilian monitoring systems. Our operations are dynamic, with teams stationed in various counties, districts, and border points,” Dr. Nyan stated. “We are actively engaging with regional bodies and partners to manage this situation effectively.”

   The NHIL Director General also addressed recent media reports about the outbreak, urging journalists to rely on accurate information from NPHIL to avoid causing unnecessary panic.

    “Misinformation can lead to confusion and hinder our response efforts. We urge the media to report responsibly and verify facts with NPHIL,” he said.

   As Liberia confronts this public health challenge, NPHIL remains committed to protecting the health and safety of both Liberian citizens and international visitors. The institute continues to work diligently to manage the outbreak and prevent further spread of the Monkeypox outbreak.

  On how the spread of disease, infection is possible through body contact and fluid, including sexual intercourse.