Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. A report from Kenema District health authorities have indicate that the district have taken a strong step to control the spread of Mpox by banning pharmacies, drug stores, and health workers from treating Mpox patients outside official health facilities.
According to Awoko Newspaper publication, this decision comes after the district reported over 30 confirmed Mpox cases. Health officials have raised concerns that the number could rise if immediate actions are not taken.
The report further disclosed that the ban was announced during a meeting between the Kenema District Health Management Team (DHMT) and the Pharmacy Board Task Force. The meeting, held at the DHMT conference hall in Kenema City, focused on strategies to stop the virus from spreading further.
Dr. Donald Grant, District Medical Officer (DMO) for Kenema, stressed the importance of the situation. He shared that while over 30 cases have been reported in Kenema, the national total has surpassed 2,000. “Mpox is a serious viral infection, similar to Ebola and COVID-19. It’s not something we can take lightly. We are urging pharmacy owners and health workers to refer suspected cases to the nearest health facility immediately.”
Dr. Grant explained that drug stores and pharmacies are often where people go first for medical help, making their cooperation vital to stopping the spread of Mpox. He also warned about the virus’s potential effects, including damage to intimate body parts, and emphasized the need for everyone to take the outbreak seriously.
Health facilities have been instructed to set up handwashing stations, increase cleaning and sanitization practices, and ensure physical distancing.
The DHMT, along with the Pharmacy Board Task Force, plans to continue working with local stakeholders and expand this initiative across the district. Dr. Grant reminded attendees of Kenema’s success in managing the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks, pointing to strict enforcement of public health regulations as a key factor.
Alieu Katta, head of Pharmacy Board in Kenema, announced that inspection teams would start immediate checks. He warned that any pharmacy or drug store found violating the new rule would be shut down.
The meeting also included the distribution of educational materials and posters, with ongoing radio discussions and community outreach planned to keep the public informed.
Kenema is stepping up to lead in disease control, using lessons from past outbreaks to manage the current health challenge.
For More News And Analysis About Sierra-Leone Follow Africa-Press
