By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Oct. 6, 2026 – Sierra Leone’s National Public Health Agency (NPHA) has assured the public that heightened surveillance measures are in place following the confirmation of Kenya’s first imported Ebola case, while urging citizens and travellers to remain vigilant.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, the NPHA disclosed that the Ebola patient travelled from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) through Uganda before dying in Nairobi, Kenya. The case is linked to the ongoing Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the DRC, which has reportedly recorded more than 8,000 cases and over 4,000 deaths.
The agency acknowledged growing public concern but emphasized that Ebola can be effectively contained through early detection, prompt medical care and cooperation with health authorities.
According to the NPHA, Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority and other relevant agencies have intensified monitoring at all points of entry, including Freetown International Airport and official land border crossings.
“All travellers are screened for signs and symptoms, and are required to provide accurate information regarding their health status, travel history and possible contact with ill persons,” the agency stated.
Health authorities warned that Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood, body fluids or contaminated materials of an infected person, whether alive or deceased. Symptoms can appear between two and 21 days after exposure and may initially include fever, weakness, headache, muscle pain and sore throat before progressing to vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain or rash.
The agency advised anyone who develops symptoms after travelling to the DRC or Kenya, or who has been in contact with a suspected Ebola patient, to immediately call the national emergency line, 117, while avoiding close contact with others and following health officials’ instructions.
The NPHA further urged travellers returning from Kenya or the DRC to monitor their health for 21 days after arrival, even if they pass entry screening procedures.
In addition, all persons entering or leaving Sierra Leone have been reminded to complete the country’s online health declaration portal within 72 hours before travel and retain their confirmation QR code or reference number.
The agency also encouraged regular handwashing, avoiding contact with body fluids or belongings of suspected Ebola patients, and refraining from handling the bodies of persons who may have died from the disease.
Executive Director of the NPHA, Brig. Gen. Prof. Foday Sahr, called on the public to stay calm, reject misinformation and cooperate fully with public health measures.
“Please remain calm, stay alert and report concerns early,” the statement urged.
Health authorities say continued vigilance and prompt reporting remain critical in preventing the importation and spread of Ebola in Sierra Leone.