By Mackie M. Jalloh
Guinea has reported its first confirmed case of Monkeypox, a viral disease also known as Mpox. This has raised concerns about the potential spread of the disease across borders in West Africa. On September 2, the National Health Security Agency (ANSS) confirmed the diagnosis of the virus in a 7-year-old girl from Koyamah, a rural community in the Macenta prefecture. This region, notable for its history with the 2014-2015 Ebola outbreak, now faces a new public health challenge.
The case was initially detected on August 30, when the young patient sought medical attention at a local health facility. Her sample was subsequently sent to a virology research center in Guéckédou, where it was confirmed that Monkeypox was the cause. Prior to this confirmation, Guinea had reported nine suspected cases of Monkeypox as of August 26.
The emergence of Monkeypox in Guinea is a critical concern for neighboring countries, especially Sierra Leone, which has so far remained free of confirmed cases. The proximity of Guinea and Sierra Leone, both members of the Mano River Union, means that any outbreak in one country can easily impact the other. The shared borders and high population mobility in the region heighten the risk of cross-border transmission of the virus.
In light of this development, Sierra Leone’s health authorities have been urged to remain vigilant. The country’s health system is advised to enhance surveillance measures, strengthen border health checks, and ensure that protocols are in place for rapid detection and response. It is crucial for Sierra Leone to bolster its preparedness to either prevent the entry of Monkeypox or manage any potential cases effectively.
The Africa CDC and the World Health Organization have both declared Monkeypox a public health emergency, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to curb the spread of the virus. As Guinea grapples with its first confirmed case, Sierra Leone’s health officials must stay alert and proactive to safeguard public health and prevent a potential outbreak within its borders.
