LIBERIA — As of May 31, 2025, the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) has confirmed 69 active cases of Mpox (Monkeypox) across several counties, triggering a national public health advisory. The confirmation followed laboratory analysis by the National Reference Laboratory under the Mpox National Incident Management System (IMS). No deaths have been reported so far.
Understanding Mpox and Its Transmission
Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease transmitted from animals to humans and between people through direct contact with infectious lesions, bodily fluids, or respiratory droplets during prolonged interaction. Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash. The virus’s incubation period generally ranges from 6 to 13 days but may extend up to 21 days.
Identified Virus Strains
Genomic sequencing in Liberia has identified two circulating strains: Monkeypox virus Clade IIa and Clade IIb. These variants align with those found in other West African countries and have informed Liberia’s strategy for containment, including enhanced surveillance and laboratory testing. The presence of both clades highlights the importance of cross-border monitoring in high-mobility regions.
National Advisory and Public Recommendations
In response, NPHIL has issued a nationwide health advisory urging citizens to avoid close contact with individuals displaying visible symptoms like rashes or lesions. Other recommendations include regular hand hygiene, safe sex practices, early medical consultation for symptoms, and immediate reporting of suspected cases.
The advisory targets both urban and rural populations and aims to reduce community transmission through early detection and isolation.
Institutional and Community-Level Measures
Beyond individual precautions, the advisory calls on institutions—such as schools, churches, businesses, and transport operators—to adopt public safety measures. These include discouraging large gatherings, providing hand-washing facilities, and avoiding overcrowding in vehicles. The Ministry of Transport has been directed to issue guidance to commercial and public transit services.
National and Regional Collaboration
NPHIL, working in coordination with the Ministry of Health and international partners, is leading containment efforts. The agency, established in 2016 in the wake of the Ebola crisis, is applying lessons learned to strengthen public education, contact tracing, and outreach. Authorities are also coordinating with neighboring West African countries to align surveillance and border health protocols.
Continued Surveillance and Community Engagement
Though no fatalities have been reported, the outbreak is being closely monitored. The public is urged to stay informed through NPHIL’s official updates and avoid stigmatizing those affected. Community engagement and accurate information are considered vital to the national response.
According to The Liberian Investigator, the health advisory underscores Liberia’s proactive stance in managing the Mpox outbreak, with a focus on prevention, regional cooperation, and public awareness.
