The Government of Sierra Leone, through the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) and the Ministry of Health (MOH), has heightened public health surveillance following an outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Uganda.

The Ugandan Ministry of Health confirmed on January 30, 2025, that the Sudan strain of the Ebola virus has resurfaced in the country. While no cases have been reported in Sierra Leone, authorities are taking proactive steps to prevent cross-border transmission.

In response to the outbreak, the NPHA and MOH have implemented several measures, including:

Enhanced screening at airports, seaports, and land borders to detect and isolate suspected cases.

Deployment of emergency response teams to improve early detection and containment.

Community awareness campaigns to educate the public on symptoms, prevention, and the importance of early medical intervention.

Understanding Ebola: Symptoms and Transmission

Ebola is a deadly viral infection that causes severe illness. Common symptoms include:

Fever, severe weakness, headache, and sore throat.

Vomiting, diarrhea, and rash.

Unexplained bleeding or bruising.

 

The virus spreads through direct contact with:

Bodily fluids (blood, saliva, vomit, urine, sweat, feces, breast milk, semen) of an infected person.

Infected animals, particularly bats and non-human primates.

Public Advised to Follow Prevention Guidelines

Health authorities are urging the public to remain calm but vigilant and to adhere to strict health protocols, including:

Frequent handwashing with soap and water.

Avoiding physical contact with suspected Ebola patients and their body fluids.

Reporting any suspected symptoms immediately to the nearest health facility or calling 117 for emergency assistance.

Brigadier General Prof. Foday Sahr, Executive Director of the NPHA, reassured the public that protecting the health and safety of Sierra Leoneans remains a top priority.

For further inquiries, the public is advised to contact Mr. Harold Thomas, Risk Communication Lead/Health Education Manager, Ministry of Health, via [email protected] or call +232 76 60 24 60.

Sierra Leone continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring preparedness against any potential health threats.