In January, Sierra Leone’s health authorities decided to manage mpox infections at home to prevent vulnerable individuals, including those suffering from malaria and pregnancy issues, from avoiding medical help. This strategy, however, escalated the issue, leading to rapid virus transmission in densely populated urban environments. The outbreak has now reached all 16 regions of Sierra Leone, including the capital, Freetown.

In a concerted effort to manage the situation, the government established multiple centers to isolate and treat patients, but these facilities are quickly filling up, with an alarming shortage of available beds and vaccines. A public health initiative designed to trace and monitor potential exposure ceased in April due to financial constraints, leaving the health ministry’s plea for vaccine supplies largely unanswered.

Dr. Ngashi Ngongo, who is directing the mpox response for the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, expressed concern regarding the already fragile health system in Sierra Leone, which has been further weakened by a financial crisis resulting in dwindling development aid.

The rapid spread of mpox highlights the urgent need for international support as Sierra Leone grapples to regain control over the health crisis.