Liberian president lifts emergency on Ebola virus

MONROVIA - Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf on Thursday announced the lifting of the State of Emergency with immediate effect.

President Sirleaf said given progress made so far and in consultation with relevant stakeholders, the National Health Team and partners, she will not seek an extension to the State of Emergency.

"This is not because the fight against Ebola is over." She said

She said the country has re-positioned efforts to sustain the fight against the virus until it is finally eradicated from the country.

President Sirleaf said progress made in dealing with Ebola would have been impossible "without the resilient response to call by all citizens, especially the health care workers.

"This means that we cannot let down our guard nor can we afford to reduce our vigilance," she added.

The Ebola virus has killed more than 5,100 people in west Africa, with 2,836 in Liberia, according to the World Health Organization.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Health on Monday shows that of the total 126 samples sent to all five laboratories, 54 were positive, 63 negative while 9 were indeterminate.

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