Authorities in Montserrado, Sinoe, and Margibi counties, where new illnesses have surfaced, have increased their reaction after Liberia’s health officials identified four live Mpox cases.
Popular comedian Jabateh is one among those presently receiving treatment; he revealed his diagnosis in a widely shared video.
Over the weekend, the Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) released an update, revealing that 652 suspected Mpox cases were registered statewide between January 1, 2024, and May 11, 2025. Out of the 572 samples that were analyzed, 78 were found to be positive in 14 of the 15 counties in the nation.
At a news conference on Saturday, NPHIL Director-general Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan stated, “All four patients are stable and receiving care at designated health facilities.” “Although the outbreak is still under control, we encourage everyone to exercise caution and adhere to preventive health measures.”
Montserrado, Margibi and Sinoe are currently deemed regions of concern, health experts said. In order to track down contacts, test suspected cases, and implement community awareness campaigns, county health teams have been activated.
Montserrado County health officer Dr. Jewel Tarpeh Kollie declared, “We are on high alert.” “We’re collaborating with partners to make sure that every suspected case is isolated and tested quickly. Our healthcare system is prepared to react.
Of the 78 confirmed Mpox cases so far, 77 patients have recovered. There have been no reported deaths.
Nimba (26), Lofa (7), Bong (7), Rivercess (7), Sinoe (6), Grand Bassa (6), Margibi (4), Maryland (2), River Gee (1), Grand Kru (1), Bomi (1), Grand Cape Mount (3), and Grand Gedeh (1) are among the regional case breakdowns.
Awareness Is Raised by Public Disclosure
After comedian Jabateh posted a video last week declaring, “I got Mpox, and I’m taking treatment,” the public’s response became more intense. His message has sparked national discussions about disease prevention, transparency, and stigma.
His decision to speak up was praised by health officials.
A viral zoonotic illness, mpox (previously known as monkeypox) produces fever, exhaustion, enlarged lymph nodes, and a rash. Direct personal contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated objects is how it spreads.
MPox vaccine in Liberia
With assistance from the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other partners, Liberia has received 10,800 doses of the Mpox vaccine as part of its response strategy. Health professionals and laboratory workers are among the more than 2,000 frontline and high-risk persons who have already received the vaccination.
The Expanded Program on Immunization’s director, Dr. Yuah Nemah, stated, “We are not yet conducting mass vaccination.” “Those with the highest exposure risk are our target.”
According to him, the vaccination campaign in Montserrado will formally start on Monday, May 19.
Authorities are asking people to maintain their composure, pay attention to health professionals’ updates, and ignore false information that is going around the internet.
