Freetown, 19th October 2026- The National Public Health Agency (NPHA) has heightened Ebola surveillance and preparedness measures across Sierra Leone following the confirmation of seven Ebola cases, including one death, in Kenya linked to the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
According to the agency, Kenyan health authorities recently confirmed four additional cases involving three healthcare workers and a relative of the first patient. The cases mark the first reported instance of person-to-person transmission within Kenya, although authorities say the affected individuals were already under quarantine and there is currently no evidence of wider community spread.
In a public notice issued on October 18, the NPHA said it is working closely with the Ministry of Health, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority, and other institutions to strengthen surveillance at points of entry across the country. Enhanced health screening measures have been introduced at Freetown International Airport and official land border crossings, particularly for travellers arriving from affected countries.
The agency noted that the outbreak in the DRC involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is currently no approved vaccine. It stressed that early detection, prompt medical care and strict infection prevention measures remain the most effective tools for containing the disease.
Health officials have urged travellers to cooperate fully with screening procedures and provide accurate information about their health status, travel history and any possible exposure to the virus. Citizens travelling from Kenya, the DRC and other affected areas have also been advised to monitor their health for 21 days after arrival and immediately report any suspected symptoms.
The NPHA reminded the public that Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person or through contaminated materials. Symptoms can appear between two and 21 days after exposure and may include fever, severe weakness, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
The agency urged anyone experiencing symptoms after travel to an affected country, or after contact with a suspected Ebola patient, to immediately call 117 and avoid close contact with others while awaiting further guidance. It also reiterated that all travellers entering or leaving Sierra Leone must complete the online health declaration form within 72 hours before travel.
Calling for vigilance rather than panic, the NPHA encouraged members of the public to rely on verified information from health authorities and to refrain from spreading rumours or misinformation. The agency said the Government remains committed to protecting public health through strengthened surveillance, early detection and coordinated preparedness measures as it continues to monitor developments in the region.
