By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has intensified Ebola prevention and health screening measures at the Freetown International Airport (FIA) as part of efforts to safeguard public health and maintain a safe aviation environment amid concerns over the recent emergence of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) within the sub-region.
In a Press Release issued by the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the Authority announced that enhanced surveillance and preventive measures have been activated to protect passengers, airport workers and the wider public from any potential cross-border transmission of the disease through air travel.
According to the statement, the intervention forms part of SLCAA’s commitment to ensuring that Sierra Leone’s aviation sector remains vigilant and prepared to respond effectively to public health threats. The Authority emphasized that the safety and wellbeing of passengers, aviation personnel and airport users remain a top priority.
Among the measures introduced are strengthening health surveillance systems, routine temperature screening of passengers and airport users and the deployment of comprehensive public awareness campaigns across the airport. Ebola prevention and awareness materials have also been displayed throughout the terminal building to educate travellers on symptoms, transmission methods and preventive practices.
The Authority disclosed that mandatory hand sanitization has been instituted at designated points within the airport premises for all passengers, staff and visitors. Health personnel operating at the airport have also undergone continuous sensitization and briefing sessions to enhance their preparedness and response capabilities.
SLCAA further revealed that all airport emergency response units have been placed on heightened alert and are fully operational to ensure a rapid and coordinated response in the event of any suspected Ebola-related incident. The Authority noted that emergency evacuation and response protocols are being continuously reviewed and updated to align with current public health requirements and international best practices.
As part of additional precautionary measures, airport Management has strengthened operational procedures aimed at reducing potential health risks within passenger processing and waiting areas. Those interventions are intended to support ongoing efforts to minimize the possibility of disease transmission while ensuring the smooth movement of travellers through the airport.
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority reassured airlines, passengers and stakeholders that all preventive measures are being implemented in accordance with national public health directives and international aviation health standards.
The Authority called on members of the public and all airport users to cooperate fully with health and airport officials by complying with health screening procedures and adhering to all safety directives issued at the airport.
Reaffirming its commitment to aviation safety and public health protection, SLCAA stated that it remains vigilant and dedicated to preserving the integrity of Sierra Leone’s aviation system while ensuring a safe travel experience for all.
The announcement comes as countries across the region continue to strengthen surveillance and preparedness mechanisms to prevent the spread of Ebola and other infectious diseases through international travel routes.
