The Government of Sierra Leone, through the National Public Health Agency (NPHA), has announced new safety regulations to stop the spread of Mpox in public spaces, institutions, and places of worship.
On May 5, 2025, NPHA, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, released a public health notice to inform the people of Sierra Leone about Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox). The notice came with strict safety regulations for public places such as markets, schools, churches, mosques, offices, and transport hubs. This move is part of efforts to control the spread of the virus and protect citizens, especially the most vulnerable groups.
But what is Mpox? How does it spread? Who is at risk? And what should people in Sierra Leone do?
What is Mpox?
Mpox is a disease caused by the Mpox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox. However, Mpox is less deadly than smallpox. The virus was first discovered in monkeys and was initially called “Monkeypox.” In 2022, the World Health Organisation (WHO) officially changed the name to Mpox to avoid discrimination or stigma.
How does it spread?
Mpox spreads from one person to another through close contact. This includes:
- Touching the skin of an infected person, especially if they have rashes or blisters.
- Contact with body fluids, like saliva, sweat, or blood.
- Using shared items, such as towels, bedsheets, or utensils.
- Kissing, hugging, or having sex with someone who is infected.
- Prolonged face-to-face contact, like talking closely for a long time.
- From animals to humans, especially wild animals like monkeys or rodents.
Mpox is not as contagious as COVID-19, but it still poses a serious threat, especially in crowded places.
What are the symptoms?
People who get Mpox usually show symptoms within 5 to 21 days. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Rash or blisters on the skin
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Back pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fatigue (feeling very tired)
The rash often starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. The blisters go through different stages—starting as flat spots, then becoming bumps, blisters, and finally scabs.
Most people recover in 2 to 4 weeks, but severe cases can happen, especially in children, elderly people, and those with weak immune systems.
What is the situation in Sierra Leone?
As of May 2025, the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) has not declared a national outbreak, but they have put preventive measures in place due to suspected or confirmed cases. The public notice released by the NPHA states that safety rules must be followed in:
- Public places: markets, shops, transport hubs, event venues, and community centres.
- Institutions: schools, universities, government offices, and prisons.
- Religious gatherings: churches, mosques, temples, and similar venues.
This means Mpox is being taken seriously by the government and health authorities.
What are the safety rules?
The NPHA has listed several key regulations. Below is a summary:
1. Clean Hands & Clean Spaces
- Wash hands at all entry and exit points.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Display health posters in local languages.
2. Watch for Symptoms & Report
- Appoint a health focal person in every public location.
- Report any signs of Mpox, such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes.
- Support contact tracing and monitor exposed individuals for 21 days.
3. Keep it Sanitary
- Disinfect shared items and spaces daily.
- Maintain all handwashing stations.
4. Keep a Safe Distance
- Keep at least 1 meter (3 feet) between people.
- Stagger gatherings to avoid overcrowding.
5. Avoid Physical Contact
- No handshakes or hugs.
- People with symptoms must stay home and call 117 or visit a health facility.
6. Share the Message
- Talk about Mpox at schools, churches, mosques, and events.
- Teach people about symptoms and prevention.
7. Protect the Vulnerable
- High-risk people (health workers, children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals) should avoid crowded spaces.
- These groups will be given priority for vaccination.
8. Enforcement
Failure to follow the rules can lead to:
- Fines
- Closure of premises
- Court action under the Public Health Act, 2022
Why is this important?
Sierra Leone is still recovering from past health emergencies like Ebola and COVID-19. Learning from these experiences, the country is now using early prevention measures to avoid another crisis. By setting up rules before the disease spreads widely, the government hopes to protect lives and prevent panic.
What can you do?
You don’t have to be a doctor to help stop Mpox. Here’s what every Sierra Leonean can do:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
- Avoid touching people who are sick or have rashes.
- Do not share clothes, towels, or bedding.
- Report symptoms immediately—call 117 or go to a health centre.
- Educate your friends, family, and community.
- Follow all rules set by the NPHA and the Ministry of Health.
What if you are at high risk?
If you are a health worker, elderly, a child, or have a weak immune system, take extra precautions:
- Stay away from crowded places.
- Use a face mask if going into busy areas.
- Avoid close contact with people who have symptoms.
- Get vaccinated if offered by the health authorities.
Mpox is real, but it can be controlled. The most powerful tools are awareness, hygiene, and early reporting. Let’s not wait for things to get worse before we act. As the NPHA says, “Educate everyone about Mpox symptoms and how to prevent it.”
When people know the facts, they can protect themselves and others. Share this information widely—at home, school, the market, the mosque, or the church. Together, we can keep Sierra Leone safe.
Need help or to report a case?
Call 117 or visit: www.npha.gov.sl