Press Statement by Dr. Louise Mapleh Kpoto
Minister of Health, Republic of Liberia
Monrovia, Liberia – May 23, 2025
Strengthening Safety Measures Amid Monkeypox Concerns
Fellow Liberians,
Amid the number of suspected and confirmed Mpox cases across the country, we urge vigilance and proactive measures to reactivate regular hand-washing practices in homes, schools, businesses, workplaces, and communities.
Monkeypox is a viral disease with symptoms including rash, fever, and headache that spreads through close contact and contaminated surfaces.
Additionally, the Ministry is pleased to inform the public that Liberia has received the Mpox vaccines. Vaccination is one of the countermeasures to interrupt the human-to-human spread of Mpox.
The Mpox Vaccine is administered under strict conditions:
• Individuals who come in contact with a confirmed case of an infected person
• At-Risk Individuals (Frontline Health Workers, etc.)
However, we can reduce the transmission of the Mpox virus by consistently washing our hands.
We ask all citizens and residents to immediately contact healthcare professionals to test and provide timely treatment for anyone showing symptoms.
Lessons from our experiences with Ebola and COVID-19 have shown that early action and collective responsibility are key to controlling outbreaks.
We encourage every citizen, resident, community leader, and health worker to reinforce the following safety measures:
• Frequent Handwashing – Use soap and clean water or alcohol-based sanitizers, just as we did during Ebola and COVID-19.
• Avoid Contact – With individuals showing symptoms like rashes or fever.
• Report Symptoms Early – Visit the nearest health facility if you or someone you know exhibits signs of monkeypox.
For anyone experiencing symptoms, please seek early medical intervention by visiting the nearest health facility or contacting the national hotline at 4455.
The Ministry of Health appreciates the continued cooperation and assures the public that it is working with urgency and diligence to contain this situation and ensure the safety of all.
Thank you.
