By Kadijatu Bangura reporter D.S
The Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Agency have moved to reassure the public that the risk of Hantavirus infection in Sierra Leone remains minimal, following global alerts linked to an outbreak aboard an international cruise ship.
In a joint statement released Friday, health officials said they are actively monitoring developments and have reinforced surveillance protocols nationwide to enable swift detection and containment, should any cases emerge.
Hantavirus, a rare but potentially severe disease, is primarily spread through contact with infected rodents, particularly through exposure to their urine, droppings, or saliva. Health authorities cautioned that transmission is most likely in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces where rodent activity is present. While human-to-human transmission is extremely uncommon, isolated cases have been documented with the Andes strain of the virus.
Symptoms to watch for include fever, headaches, fatigue, muscle aches, nausea, abdominal pain, and, in advanced cases, respiratory distress, officials noted.
As of now, no cases of Hantavirus have been confirmed in Sierra Leone. To bolster preparedness, surveillance has been intensified at ports of entry and within health facilities across the country. The government is also working closely with regional and international partners to align response strategies.
Plans are underway to launch Risk Communication and Community Engagement initiatives designed to keep the public informed and to promote preventive practices. Citizens are urged to maintain clean surroundings, secure food storage, and ensure proper waste disposal to discourage rodent infestations. Protective gear is recommended when cleaning areas with signs of rodent presence.
Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms after possible rodent exposure or recent international travel is advised to seek immediate medical attention or call the emergency line at 117.
Authorities appealed for calm and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information, emphasizing that updates will be disseminated through official channels only.
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