Health professionals from Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia have convened in San Pedro to bolster collaborative efforts aimed at improving cross-border surveillance of Mpox (Monkeypox). The meeting, supported by the West African Health Organization (WAHO), brings together 40 public health experts from Abidjan and Monrovia, who are working to enhance regional coordination in disease management and prevention.
The gathering’s primary focus is to share experiences and insights on Mpox management, drawing from both countries’ recent encounters with the virus. The discussions also aim to create a comprehensive joint action plan that will improve the early detection of cases, strengthen response mechanisms, and facilitate more effective collaboration across the border to prevent further outbreaks.
Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia have both experienced localized Mpox outbreaks in the past, and authorities in both nations are committed to improving their response capabilities to contain the disease. One of the key objectives of this meeting is to harmonize surveillance systems, ensuring a faster response in detecting and controlling future cases of Mpox.
The meeting also underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing public health threats in West Africa. By collaborating and sharing best practices, these two countries hope to better equip their healthcare systems to combat emerging infectious diseases, such as Mpox, and minimize their impact on communities.
WAHO, the health organization leading the initiative, is working to facilitate more effective cross-border communication and interventions across the region. The organization supports countries in building stronger health surveillance networks and enhancing preparedness for disease outbreaks.
This initiative represents an important step toward strengthening the region’s overall public health infrastructure and showcases the power of regional cooperation in safeguarding populations from emerging health threats.
