Freetown, Sierra Leone — In a pivotal move to strengthen health measures and ensure public safety, Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, Director General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), visited the Liberia-Sierra Leone border this week to conduct an on-ground assessment following a suspected case of Viral Hemorrhagic Fever (VHF) reported in Sierra Leone.
By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr(231886458910)-[email protected]
The visit comes in the wake of a suspected VHF case reported in Sierra Leone’s Kono District, located near the border with Liberia. The Sierra Leone Ministry of Health and its National Public Health Agency (NPHA) confirmed that a health worker in Freetown, exhibiting symptoms of VHF, tragically passed away.
The case raised alarms across the region, prompting both Sierra Leone and Liberia to heighten vigilance at border crossings.
In response, the NPHA placed Sierra Leone on high alert, closely monitoring nearly 300 contacts from the affected area, all of whom have now completed a 21-day observation period without showing symptoms.
Meanwhile, health authorities in Liberia, led by NPHIL, have also taken proactive steps to enhance infection control measures at key border points.
During his visit to the Bo Waterside crossing, Dr. Nyan underscored the importance of continued vigilance and regional cooperation.
The visit was focused on assessing and reinforcing health protocols at the border, particularly the prevention of infectious diseases, including VHF, and ensuring that travelers and traders adhere to the latest health guidelines.
Dr. Nyan highlighted the collaborative efforts between Liberia and Sierra Leone in managing the crisis. “Although no further cases of VHF have been reported in either Sierra Leone, Liberia, or Guinea, we cannot afford to lower our guard,” he said.
“On-ground assessments are crucial in refining our response strategies and ensuring that health measures are being effectively implemented.”
The visit included detailed discussions on strengthening infection prevention and control (IPC) measures, improving the distribution of medical supplies, and enhancing risk communication, particularly through public awareness campaigns.
Dr. Nyan stressed the need for more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers and proper disposal of medical waste at border points.
One of the key points of discussion was the seamless cooperation between Liberia and Sierra Leone’s health teams.
Both countries have made significant strides in working together to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Regular meetings between border health officials ensure effective communication and coordination.
Edward Fandewo, Head of the Sierra Leone health team at the border, expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts. “Despite initial concerns, the processes we’ve put in place have proven to be effective,” he said. “We alternate visits to each other’s countries, which helps maintain a strong working relationship and effective response measures.”
Dr. Nyan praised the close collaboration, noting that the sharing of resources and information is vital for managing cross-border health risks. “This is a model of regional cooperation,” he remarked. “Both Liberia and Sierra Leone must continue to work hand in hand to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.”
Despite the positive outcomes, challenges remain at the border. Mosetta K. Shaffa, Port Health Officer at Bo Waterside, pointed to the need for continued improvement in IPC practices and materials management.
“We are grateful for the support from NPHIL, especially with the distribution of risk communication materials like posters, gloves, and lab coats,” Shaffa noted. “However, we must ensure that these materials are consistently available and used correctly.”
Saxon Tambo, Immigration Commander and Joint Security Chairman on the Liberian side, also shared concerns about the impact of global market trends on the availability of health-related materials, particularly the “yellow book” for international travelers.
Tambo pointed out that while these issues are largely driven by international pricing, they still affect local health protocols and border operations.
Both Liberia and Sierra Leone are committed to continuing their collaborative efforts, with frequent border meetings ensuring that health protocols are adhered to and updated as necessary.
Dr. Nyan reassured the public that NPHIL would continue to provide the necessary resources, including PPE and communication materials, to support health teams on the front lines.
As the region remains on high alert, authorities in both countries are urging the public to stay informed and follow official health guidelines to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
While the immediate threat of a VHF outbreak may have been contained, the situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust health systems and international cooperation in tackling public health crises.
The coordinated efforts at the border between Liberia and Sierra Leone showcase a model for addressing health threats in the region.
The exchange of information, sharing of resources, and commitment to proactive health measures are essential as both nations work together to safeguard their populations against infectious diseases like VHF.
As the region remains on edge, the visit by Dr. Nyan and his team is a clear indication of the seriousness with which both countries will treat any suspected VHF case and their determination to protect public health through preparedness and collaboration.
