Suspected Hemorrhagic Fever in Sierra Leone Tests Negative: Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan Declares

By Julius T. Jaesen, II

Freetown, Sierra Leone – A suspected case of viral hemorrhagic fever in Sierra Leone has placed the spotlight on the country’s and the region’s public health systems. The case involved a healthcare worker from Kono District who exhibited symptoms and later died in Freetown. Initial tests returned indeterminate results, raising concerns about potential cross-border public health risks.

Authorities in Sierra Leone responded swiftly by tracing 291 contacts linked to the case and placing them under surveillance during the 21-day incubation period. Thankfully, no additional cases were reported, showcasing the country’s improved health response capabilities.

The incident underscores the importance of regional collaboration in combating public health threats. Liberia’s National Public Health Institute (NPHIL) Director-General, Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, emphasized the robust partnership among Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Côte d’Ivoire during a recent press briefing. “We’ve built strong cooperation with our neighbors, ensuring transparency and accountability in managing health emergencies,” Dr. Nyan noted.

He also pointed to the advancements in Liberia’s public health technology, including sequencing capabilities, which have been critical in identifying and managing disease outbreaks. “Sequencing technology allows us to revisit samples for a deeper understanding of potential pathogens, a vital tool in cases like this,” he explained.

Shifting focus to Liberia, Dr. Nyan provided an update on the country’s ongoing battle with mpox and Lassa fever. Liberia has recorded 63 confirmed mpox cases, with 26 active cases and 37 recoveries. Efforts to combat the disease have included submitting requests for emergency-use mpox vaccines to the Africa CDC, marking significant progress in preparedness and response.

“We’ve been managing cases with limited resources while maintaining commendable recovery rates,” Dr. Nyan said. He praised the media for its role in countering misinformation, highlighting the collaboration between public health professionals and journalists as pivotal in disease management.

Regarding Lassa fever, Liberia has confirmed 39 cases from 231 suspected cases, with 177 negative tests and two samples classified as indeterminate. Dr. Nyan commended the National Reference Lab’s advancements, which have enabled efficient pathogen sequencing.

Dr. Nyan stressed that Liberia’s achievements in sequencing and diagnostic technology not only bolster national health security but also contribute to regional efforts. He outlined plans to train teams on platforms like MySeq and called for a transition where Africa becomes a producer of health solutions rather than merely a consumer.

The press conference ended with a call for sustained collaboration among public health stakeholders, emphasizing the shared responsibility of addressing cross-border health challenges. “Africa’s health security relies on our collective ability to innovate, respond, and communicate effectively,” Dr. Nyan concluded.