Amidst Monkey-Pox Outbreak, NPHIL Calls for Increased Budgetary Support to Boost Response and Research

Monrovia, Liberia: The House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health following a comprehensive briefing by the Director General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, on the current status and response to the monkeypox (M-pox) virus in Liberia.

Dr. Nyan appeared before the House Plenary during its Third Day Sitting of the Second Quarter of the Second Session on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, where the public health expert underscored the urgent need for increased budgetary allocation to the health sector. 

The NPHIL boss stressed increased budgetary support is vital for advancing vaccine research, diagnostics, and maintaining a strong outbreak response system.

Dr. Nyan: “While significant efforts have been made to combat the spread of monkeypox and other infectious diseases, continued progress requires robust and sustained financial investment.”  

He disclosed that Liberia currently has only four (4) active M-pox cases and zero deaths, compared to Sierra Leone’s 1,918 active cases and 13 deaths—a testament to Liberia’s early intervention strategies.

The NPHIL Director General’s appearance followed an invitation from the House of Representatives seeking clarity on the nation’s level of preparedness, the status of the outbreak, and the mechanisms in place to contain the virus and protect citizens.

In response to Dr. Nyan’s deliberation, members of the House of Representatives expressed serious concern over the health and safety of the Liberian people, affirming its resolve to support the health sector through legislative actions that ensure stronger systems for disease surveillance and emergency response.

“It is our duty as national leaders to ensure that our health institutions are not only prepared but are actively taking measures to prevent further spread of monkeypox,” the House emphasized.

The engagement underscores the House’s proactive stance on public health matters and the growing awareness of the importance of research, preparedness, and investment in Liberia’s health infrastructure.