Sierra Leone Declares End of Mpox Outbreak Amid Survivors’Stigma. Freetown, Sierra Leone — Sierra Leone has officially declared the end of its Mpox outbreak, marking the conclusion of a health emergency that began two years ago.
The country witnessed over 5,000 cases and 60 fatalities during the epidemic, which was declared in response to two confirmed cases outside the capital, Freetown.
Despite the declaration, survivors continue to face significant stigma and discrimination. Many report being rejected by their families, losing jobs, and struggling to reintegrate into their communities.
This discrimination is largely due to misinformation, fear, and mistrust of public health messages.
Nelson Johnson, a survivor who recovered in May, has been actively raising awareness through the Sierra Leone Epidemic Action Network since June. He emphasizes the importance of combating misinformation as a crucial step towards ending the stigma. “
People are not ready to accept it unless we decide to go to the community and explain that I have been affected, I’m now a survivor.
It doesn’t mean that I can infect you, “Johnson. Of the more than 5,000 people infected during the outbreak, 99 percent recovered.
However, Dr.
John Abu Bakarr Conteh of the FCC Mpox Treatment Center notes that survivors still require support. “This response is not only focusing on case management.
We had also psychosocial aspects, logistical support, security, but the psychosocial case management were paramount, “Dr.
Conteh explained.
The epidemic was unique in Sierra Leone due to the rare cases of genital lesions observed in many victims, which exacerbated the stigma and made it harder to break the chain of transmission. Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, is a zoonotic disease transmitted from infected animals to humans and from person to person. Survivors like Johnson are calling for increased awareness and understanding to help them reintegrate into society. “.
Even a place to sleep, I don’t have. Food to eat, I don’t have. At my workplace, when they knew I had Mpox, they didn’t allow me to return.
Up till now, I’m searching for a job. It’s not easy for my life, “Johnson.
The government of Sierra Leone has not yet commented on the ongoing challenges faced by survivors.
Further details are expected in the coming days.
