Freetown, Sierra Leone — November 18, 2025
The Government of Sierra Leone has launched an urgent investigation into reports of unexplained skin lesions affecting at least 28 school-going children in the Safroko-Limba Chiefdom of Bombali District, northern Sierra Leone.
In a press release issued today by the National Public Health Agency (NPHA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MoH), authorities confirmed that the affected children are aged between 15 and 17 years.
A rapid response team — comprising epidemiologists, infection prevention and control (IPC) experts, and laboratory scientists from both district and national levels — has been deployed to the community.
The team’s objectives include:
• Conducting detailed investigations to determine the cause of the symptoms
• Identifying suspected cases and tracing close contacts
• Implementing immediate infection prevention and control measures
• Collecting samples for urgent laboratory testing in Freetown
While awaiting laboratory results, the NPHA emphasized that there is “no cause for alarm” and assured the public that the government is taking all necessary steps to investigate, manage, and contain the situation swiftly and effectively.
Public Advisory
Health officials urged the public to remain calm and supportive during the ongoing investigations. Community members were encouraged to report any unusual skin conditions — particularly among children and adolescents — to the nearest health facility or by calling the toll-free national hotline 117.
The statement strongly advised against self-medication or the use of traditional remedies for unfamiliar skin conditions, highlighting that early reporting and appropriate medical care are essential to protect individuals and prevent potential further transmission.
“Together, we can prevent the spread of infections and safeguard our communities,” the press release concluded.
The incident comes amid heightened public health vigilance in Sierra Leone, a country with recent experience managing outbreaks of infectious diseases. Authorities have called on all communities to cooperate fully with health teams and adhere to any guidance provided in the coming days.
Further updates are expected as laboratory results become available. The NPHA can be contacted via its website at www.npha.gov.sl or hotline for additional information.
