Sierra Leone has officially declared the Mpox epidemic over, ending a two-year health crisis that recorded more than 5,000 confirmed cases and 60 deaths across the country. The original emergency was declared nearly a year ago, following the confirmation of two cases outside the capital, Freetown. Despite the official end, many survivors continue to face significant social stigma. Recovered patients report being ostracized by families, losing employment, and struggling to reintegrate into their communities due to widespread misinformation and fear.
Nelson Johnson, who recovered from Mpox in May, now works with the Sierra Leone Epidemic Action Network to raise awareness and combat stigma. “People think Mpox is a curse or that it’s not real. Only by sharing our experiences in communities can we help others understand that survivors are not contagious,” he said. Hannah Abibu, another survivor, described the hardships she faces: “Even a place to sleep or food is difficult. My workplace refused to let me return, and I’m still searching for a job.”
Dr. John Abu Bakarr Conteh of the FCC Mpox Treatment Center emphasized the need for continued support for survivors. “Recovery is not just about treating cases. Psychosocial care, logistics, and community support were essential to combating the epidemic,” he said. The outbreak in Sierra Leone was notable for the high incidence of genital lesions, a factor that increased social stigma and complicated public health messaging. Mpox, a zoonotic disease transmitted from animals to humans and between people, saw a 99 percent recovery rate among those infected. Health officials stress that ongoing education and community support remain critical to help survivors fully reintegrate and prevent future outbreaks.
