The National Public Health Agency (NPHA) has announced heightened Ebola surveillance and preparedness measures across Sierra Leone following reports of seven confirmed cases, including one death, in Kenya, reportedly linked to the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
According to a public notice issued on Sunday, 18 October 2026, and signed by the Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency, Brigadier General Professor Foday Sahr, the Agency is closely monitoring developments in Kenya while strengthening preventive measures to protect Sierra Leone against the possible importation of the deadly disease.
The NPHA disclosed that Kenyan health authorities reported four additional Ebola cases on 17 October 2026, involving three healthcare workers who treated the first patient and a relative of that patient. The reported infections represent the first documented instances of person-to-person transmission within Kenya.
However, Kenyan authorities have indicated that the affected individuals were already under quarantine and that there is currently no evidence of widespread community transmission.
The Agency further explained that the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which has historically caused serious infections and fatalities. Although no vaccine has been specifically approved for this strain, early detection, prompt medical intervention and effective infection prevention measures remain essential to controlling transmission and saving lives.
Responding to the reported developments, the National Public Health Agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority and other relevant institutions, has intensified surveillance and preparedness activities nationwide, particularly at designated points of entry.
Health screening and monitoring procedures are being strengthened at Freetown International Airport and official land border crossings, with special attention directed towards travellers arriving from countries affected by Ebola.
The Agency has urged travellers to cooperate fully with health officials and provide accurate information concerning their health conditions, recent travel history and possible exposure to infected individuals.
Explaining the nature of the disease, the NPHA stated that Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person who is ill or has died, as well as through contact with contaminated materials.
Symptoms generally develop between two and 21 days after exposure and may include sudden fever, severe weakness, headaches, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort. Bleeding may occur in some patients but is not always present.
The Agency has consequently advised anyone experiencing symptoms after travelling from an affected country or coming into contact with a suspected Ebola patient to immediately contact the national emergency toll-free number, 117.
Such individuals are encouraged to provide accurate details about their symptoms, travel history and possible exposure while avoiding close contact with others and refraining from using public transportation until they receive appropriate medical guidance.
Travellers arriving from Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other affected areas have also been advised to monitor their health for 21 days after entering Sierra Leone, even if they successfully complete initial health screening at their point of entry.
Individuals who know they have been exposed to an Ebola patient are required to report the exposure immediately, regardless of whether they are experiencing symptoms.
The NPHA further reminded all travellers entering or departing Sierra Leone that they must complete the mandatory health declaration through the official online portal, https://poep.npha.gov.sl, within 72 hours before travelling. Travellers must provide accurate information and retain their confirmation details for verification by Port Health officials.
Members of the public have also been encouraged to maintain appropriate hygiene practices, including regular handwashing with soap and water, avoiding direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated belongings of suspected Ebola patients and refraining from touching or handling the bodies of individuals suspected to have died from the disease.
Healthcare workers have been urged to maintain strict infection prevention and control procedures, use appropriate personal protective equipment and promptly report suspected cases through established public health reporting channels.
Similarly, employers and organisations facilitating travel to affected countries have been advised to provide their personnel with appropriate health information and preventive guidance.
While emphasizing the importance of vigilance, the National Public Health Agency appealed to Sierra Leoneans to remain calm, avoid unnecessary panic and rely exclusively on verified information from the Agency and the Ministry of Health.
The NPHA also cautioned against spreading rumours and misinformation, stressing the importance of treating travellers and affected individuals with dignity and respect.
Brigadier General Professor Foday Sahr reaffirmed the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment to protecting public health through strengthened disease surveillance, early detection, emergency preparedness and coordinated response mechanisms.
The Agency assured the public that it would continue monitoring developments in affected countries and provide timely updates as the situation evolves.
The latest announcement underscores Sierra Leone’s determination to strengthen its public health safeguards and maintain vigilance against Ebola, particularly given the country’s devastating experience during the 2014–2016 West African Ebola epidemic.
The NPHA concluded its public notice by reminding citizens that early reporting remains critical to preventing the spread of Ebola and saving lives.
“Early reporting saves lives. Stay alert, follow health guidance and call 117 if you suspect Ebola,” the Agency emphasized.
