NPHIL Provides Public Health Advisory -Confirms New Mpox Cases with Zero (0) Deaths

MONROVIA – In the wake of the increase in cases of the Monkeypox or Mpox virus in the sub-region and Liberia, the Mpox National Incident Management System (IMS), has confirmed additional new cases of Mpox. These testing results submitted by the National Reference Laboratory (NRL) of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) bring to sixty-nine (69) the number of active cases and zero (0) deaths to date, as of 31st May 2025.

According to a May 31, 2025 NPHIL press release, the Monkeypox virus causes the disease Mpox which is transmitted from animals to humans, and then spreads from person-to-person through contact and with characteristic symptom that include large pus-filled rashes. Biomolecular laboratory investigation using genomic sequencing in Liberia demonstrates the circulation of Monkeypox virus Clade IIa and Clade IIb in the country. These strains are infectious and transmissible as observed in neighbouring countries in the region for which the NPHIL continues to heighten public health vigilance at all levels.

Established by the NPHIL Act of 2016 to respond to public health threats including outbreaks, the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) is pronouncing its public health advisory aimed at preventing community transmission as well as cross-border transfer, given the volume of travels within the region.

According to the NPHIL advisory, the public is strongly advised to avoid close contact with persons showing symptoms such as rashes; wash or sanitize your hands regularly; practice safe sex; report any suspected case of infection; and seek medical attention if you develop rashes.

Additionally, the NPHIL Public Health Advisory is cautioning organizations to reduce large gatherings; organizations; businesses, offices, schools, places of worship are advised to make available hand-washing stations; over-crowdedness should be avoided in vehicles (specific regulations to be formulated by the Ministry of Transport).

“The NPHIL, MOH, other agencies of government, and supporting partners are working collaboratively within the Mpox IMS to continuously strengthen Liberia’s response. Given our experience with previous outbreaks, the NPHIL is coordinating with public health authorities of neighbouring countries, and the public is advised to remain calm as the Government of Liberia is committed to safeguarding public health,” the release, signed by NPHIL Director-General dougbeh Chris Nyan, said.