Freetown, 9th January 2025 – The National Public Health Agency (NPHA) and the Ministry of Health (MOH) have assured the public that recent outbreaks of a flu-like viral illness in children reported in China and human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in India have not been detected in Sierra Leone.
Brig. Gen. Prof. Foday Sahr, Executive Director of the NPHA, stated, “We want to reassure everyone that these illnesses, while raising concerns globally, have not been found in Sierra Leone. Our health systems remain vigilant to protect public health.”
China has reported a surge in flu-like illnesses affecting children, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, while India is tackling cases of HMPV, a respiratory virus that causes fever, cough, and runny nose. Despite global worries, officials confirmed there is no evidence of these diseases in the country.
To bolster prevention, the NPHA and MOH have implemented several precautionary measures. These include monitoring respiratory illness trends at health facilities and border points, enhancing laboratory capacity for detecting viral infections, and promoting public education on hygiene practices.
“We are actively collaborating with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other international partners to stay updated on global developments and ensure that Sierra Leone remains protected,” Prof. Sahr added.
The public has been urged to adopt preventive practices such as regular handwashing, using masks in crowded spaces during flu season, and seeking medical attention for persistent symptoms like fever or difficulty breathing.
“We encourage everyone to stay calm and take these simple but effective measures seriously,” said Prof. Sahr.
The NPHA and MOH emphasized their commitment to closely monitoring the situation and keeping the public informed. “Although these illnesses are not in Sierra Leone, we are taking every possible step to ensure they do not reach our shores,” Prof. Sahr affirmed.
For accurate updates and information, citizens are advised to rely solely on official sources.
