By: Mohamed Sahr
mohamedsahrpro@gmail.com
The National Public Health Authority (NPHA) and the Ministry of Health (MOH) through the Government of Sierra Leone embarked on a swift investigation of suspected case of Viral Haemorrhagic Fever (VHF) in Kono. This statement was made in a press release dated on Saturday 30th November 2024.
Ministry of Health and National Public Health Agency notified that a Rapid Response Team (RRT) was deployed early on Saturday 30th November 2024 as a way to assess the situation after the routine monitoring of the suspect.
As part of the investigation, contacts of the deceased have been identifed, and samples have been sent to the 34 Military Hospital Infectious Disease Laboratory for testing. Results are pending.
“For Immediate Release, routine investigations like these are an integral part of Sierra Leone’s public health surveillance to ensure community safety,” NPHA stated.
The National Public Health Agency and Ministry of Health are well-prepared to respond swiftly and effectively. Adding that there is no immediate cause for concern.
In a joint statement on a public notice, the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) and the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MOH) announced the deployment of a Rapid Response Team (RRT) to the eastern district. This proactive measure comes in the wake of reports of a deceased patient suspected of succumbing to Haemorrhagic Fever Case.
To bolster the investigation, contacts of the deceased had been identified, and samples had been promptly dispatched to the 34 Military Hospital’s Infectious Disease Laboratory in Freetown for thorough testing. The NPHA confirmed that results from these tests are pending, and routine surveillance continues as a pillar of Sierra Leone’s public health vigilance.
Brig. Gen. Prof. Foday Sahr, Executive Director of the NPHA, assured the public that there is no immediate cause for alarm. “We are closely monitoring the situation and stand prepared to respond decisively should this case be confirmed. Our systems and personnel are fully equipped to ensure public safety and control the spread of infectious diseases,” he stated.
This decisive action underscores the Ministry of Health’s robust preparedness to handle potential health crises. Over the years, the ministry has reinforced its capacity for early detection and swift containment of diseases, earning commendation for its responsiveness during emergencies.
Meanwhile, citizens are urged to remain calm and follow updates from official sources to avoid misinformation. The Ministry emphasized that public cooperation is critical in managing any health situation effectively.
The Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Sierra Leoneans and highlighted the importance of collaboration between health authorities and the public.
As Sierra Leone remains vigilant, the nation’s ability to address health challenges reflects its progress in building a resilient healthcare system to protect its citizens.
