Sierra Leone has declared the Mpox outbreak over, marking a significant milestone in the country’s public health efforts. The declaration comes after all 16 districts in the country exceeded the World Health Organization’s (WHO) threshold of 42 days without recording a new case.
The outbreak, which was first detected in January 2025, resulted in 5,442 confirmed cases, with 5,382 recoveries representing a 99% recovery and survival rate. The country recorded a low case fatality rate of 1.1%.
Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby attributed the success to the dedication and sacrifice of medical staff, the Ministry of Health, and the National Public Health Agency (NPHA). He emphasized that the achievement reflects a national response, with a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.
The Ministry of Health, with support from partners, vaccinated over 186,000 people, prioritizing healthcare workers and vulnerable populations. Over 22,500 contacts were traced and monitored, and laboratory capacity was expanded to nine testing sites nationwide.
The declaration coincides with the second anniversary of the NPHA, which has played a crucial role in early detection, surveillance, and case management of public health emergencies.
