18,898 Vaccinated As Liberia Intensifies Mpox Outbreak Response

By Jamesetta D Williams

MONROVIA–Liberia’s national response to the Mpox outbreak continues to gain ground, with nearly nineteen thousand people now vaccinated under a targeted, risk-based immunization campaign led by the Ministry of Health.

According to health authorities, 18,898 individuals across the country have received Mpox vaccines, marking a significant step in efforts to contain the disease and protect high-risk populations. The vaccination drive is being implemented through the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) and focuses on communities with elevated exposure risks.

The strategy prioritizes persons aged two years and above, including healthcare workers, frontline responders, and individuals identified through contact tracing of laboratory-confirmed Mpox cases. Officials say the approach allows limited vaccine supplies to be deployed where they are most needed, based on epidemiological evidence.

Montserrado County, the epicenter of the outbreak, continues to record the highest response activity. The county has vaccinated 6,360 people, corresponding with 1,013 confirmed Mpox cases, underscoring the scale of intervention required in the densely populated area.

Other counties have also shown strong engagement in the national response. Nimba County reported 4,980 vaccinated individuals alongside 139 confirmed cases, while Grand Bassa County recorded 1,784 vaccinations and 61 confirmed cases. In Grand Cape Mount, 1,374 people have been vaccinated amid 44 laboratory-confirmed cases.

Health officials describe the figures as encouraging, noting that vaccination coverage is being aligned with disease patterns to slow transmission and prevent further spread. The Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining surveillance, vaccination, and community engagement as the response continues nationwide.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.