Liberia Confirms New Mpox Cases Amid Rising Concerns

Liberia has reported four new mpox cases, with one stable patient remaining active. The announcement follows concerns raised by comedian T. Kelvin Nimely’s social media disclosure of his infection. Health officials are encouraging preventive measures and have begun vaccination efforts supported by the Africa CDC. The situation is linked to a surge of cases in Sierra Leone, highlighting the importance of vigilance in containing the virus.

Liberia has confirmed four new cases of mpox, as announced by Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, the Director General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL). The cases include one from Sinoe, two from Montserrado, and one from Margibi County. Dr. Nyan made the announcement during a press briefing attended by the Ministry of Health and representatives from the Africa CDC and the World Organization, urging the public to stay calm and follow health guidelines to prevent further spread of the virus.

Dr. Nyan reassured the public, stating, “All four patients are stable and receiving care at designated facilities.” He also provided context for the ongoing situation, noting that from January 1, 2024, to May 11, 2025, there had been 652 suspected cases. Out of these, 572 samples were tested at the lab, revealing 78 confirmed mpox infections. Notably, there is only one active case at this moment with no fatalities reported. “Out of these 78 cases, we only have one active, so all 77 cases have recovered,” he highlighted.

Growing concerns began circulating after comedian T. Kelvin Nimely, known as Ambassador Jabateh the Kruman, disclosed via social media that he is infected with mpox. In a conversation over the phone, Nimely explained that he contracted the virus during a performance in Foya, Lofa County. A man, who he described as appearing sick with visible rashes, had interacted closely with him while on stage. “We both rubbed our sweat on each other while I was on stage,” he recalled.

Following the performance, Nimely felt unwell after returning to Voinjama. Despite visiting three hospitals and self-medicating with antibiotics, his symptoms worsened until he was informed it might be mpox. “The rashes extended to under my feet; this was how I got infected,” he stated. His case drew the attention of health authorities, prompting him to test for the virus at the Duport Health Center.

Maybel Mason, Communications Manager at Orange Liberia, confirmed the company’s awareness regarding Nimely’s health situation. “All of the people that were with him on that trip got themselves checked as well and, fortunately and unfortunately, it is just him that is being infected by the mpox virus,” she said. The Ministry of Health is collaborating with Orange Liberia to ensure the contacts of Nimely are monitored.

The recent cases in Liberia come after a surge in mpox cases in Sierra Leone, where the National Public Health Agency reported 2,045 confirmed cases. To combat the spread, Dr. Yuah A. Nemah from the Ministry of Health shared that Liberia has received vaccines from the Africa CDC. Over 2,000 individuals in specific counties have already been vaccinated, targeting frontline workers and those who have been in contact with confirmed cases. Vaccination efforts, along with community engagement, are set to extend to other affected regions soon.

The recent confirmation of mpox cases in Liberia, alongside the case of comedian T. Kelvin Nimely, has raised concerns within the public. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination and adherence to safety protocols amid reports of a resurgence in neighboring countries. The government continues to mobilize resources to combat the virus and protect communities, demonstrating a proactive stance against potential outbreaks. Collaboration among health authorities, the public, and communication strategies ensure that preventive measures remain a priority as Liberia faces this health challenge.

Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com