Freetown, Sierra Leone – May 13, 2026 – The National Public Health Agency (NPHA) has issued an urgent alert to the public regarding a measles outbreak across the country, with 41 confirmed cases recorded between January and April 2026.
According to the official press release, the cases have been reported in eight districts, with a national test positivity rate of 75%. The Western Area Urban (Freetown) is the most severely affected region, recording a sharp rise to 9 cases in April alone, indicating active community transmission.
Measles is described as a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes nearby. The disease can cause serious illness and even death, particularly among young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Public Advisory Issued
The Ministry of Health (MoH) and NPHA are urging residents to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. Common symptoms include high fever, red watery eyes, runny nose, cough, and rash.
The public is advised to:
– Visit the nearest health facility immediately if experiencing fever, rash, or red eyes.
– Ensure children receive the two free doses of the measles vaccine available at government health facilities.
– Keep sick children at home and avoid sending them to school or crowded places.
– Avoid self-medication or traditional remedies.
– Report suspected cases by calling the toll-free line 117 or visiting the nearest health facility.
Vaccination remains the most effective protection against the disease. Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to vaccinate their children.
Government Response
The Government of Sierra Leone, through the NPHA and MoH, has outlined several measures to contain the outbreak:
– Deployment of field teams in Western Area Urban and other affected districts for case identification and treatment.
– Implementation of ring vaccination around confirmed cases to interrupt transmission.
– Strengthening infection prevention and control at all health facilities.
– Providing regular, transparent updates to the public.
Brig. Gen. Prof. Foday Sahr, Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency, signed the release, emphasizing that there is no cause for panic.
He noted that measles is preventable and treatable, and that early medical care saves lives.
The statement called on all communities to cooperate with health authorities to protect families and curb the spread.
The NPHA can be contacted at its Wilberforce office in Freetown or via the provided hotlines and email for further information.
This alert comes as health officials work to prevent further escalation in the coming weeks. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and act promptly on the public health advice.
