By Desmond Lewis
Freetown, Sierra Leone — July 9, 2025: Amid growing concerns over Mpox infections in Sierra Leone, Amnesty International—one of the world’s leading human rights organizations—launched a public sensitization campaign in the Eastern business district of Freetown. The initiative sought to educate the community about the virus’s symptoms, transmission, and prevention methods, while emphasizing government accountability in upholding health rights.
Held in one of the city’s most densely populated commercial zones, the event gathered human rights school clubs, police officers from the Eastern Police Station, and local traders to engage residents and share life-saving information.
Speaking at the event, Christiana Fabai, Gender Desk Officer of Amnesty International, said the goal was to reach areas most vulnerable to disease spread.
“We’re here to discuss the human rights responsibilities of both government and citizens. The government must guarantee timely, accessible, and dignified healthcare—testing, treatment, and vaccines included—while avoiding discrimination or stigmatization of affected individuals.”
She added that public health measures must be transparent and inclusive, urging authorities to collaborate with international partners to secure resources for outbreak containment.
Police Inspector Elizabeth welcomed the outreach in her community, noting its potential to protect residents who face daily crowding and exposure. Trader Fatmata Kamara raised concerns about the lack of proper crowd management during rush hours, calling for government action to reduce disease transmission.
Student Fatmata Macarty of Municipal School issued a heartfelt plea to her peers:
“Mpox is real. We must take health information seriously and follow safety guidelines.”
Albert Academy teacher Mohamed Sheku Sesay commended Amnesty’s efforts, highlighting the civic duty of citizens to follow public health protocols such as hand hygiene, social distancing, and early symptom reporting.
What You Need to Know About Mpox
Causes:
– Mpox is a viral disease caused by the Mpox virus, often transmitted through close contact with infected individuals or animals.
Symptoms:
– Fever, headache, muscle aches
– Swollen lymph nodes
– Rash that progresses to pustules and scabs
Prevention:
– Maintain good hygiene, especially handwashing
– Avoid close contact with infected individuals
– Use protective gear in crowded areas
– Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly
Treatment:
– Mild cases may resolve without treatment
– Severe infections may require antiviral medication
– Supportive care, like hydration and fever management helps recovery
– Report to the nearest health facility when experiencing symptoms
Amnesty International’s campaign reinforces a vital message: public health is not just medical—it’s a matter of human rights, shared responsibility, and collective resilience.