In response to the recent upsurge of mpox cases in the country, WHO Country Office received a joint mission of the Continental Mpox Incident Management Support Team (IMST) from 28 April to 2 May 2025.
This mission brought together experts from WHO AFRO, Africa CDC, and key partners, working closely with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) to assess and enhance the country’s national Mpox response operations.
Throughout the week, the joint team conducted comprehensive field assessments, evaluated technical capacities across key response pillars, and convened strategic stakeholder workshops. These activities provided critical insights that informed the updating of a Joint Incident Action Plan, aligned with the Continental Mpox Response Strategy.
The mission focused on strengthening core response areas, including coordination and logistics, surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, case management, infection prevention and control (IPC), vaccination, and risk communication and community engagement (RCCE).
This collaborative effort marked a significant step in reinforcing a coordinated, intensified, and sustainable response to Mpox in Sierra Leone. By addressing key operational gaps and fostering stronger partnerships, the mission contributed to building greater national health security and resilience against future public health threats.