By Forum staff writer
The National Public Health Agency and the Ministry of Health have confirmed a measles outbreak in Sierra Leone after 41 cases were recorded between January and April 2026 in eight districts across the country.
Health officials disclosed that the outbreak currently has a national test positivity rate of 75 percent, raising concerns among medical authorities over the rapid spread of the disease, especially among children.
According to the latest figures released by the health authorities, Western Area Urban has emerged as the most affected district with 15 confirmed cases. Officials said nine of those cases were recorded in April alone, indicating active community transmission within Freetown and surrounding communities.
Medical experts say the recent rise in infections is a serious public health concern that requires urgent attention from both health authorities and the public.
The Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Agency noted that measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and close contact with infected persons. The disease mainly affects children but can also infect adults who are not vaccinated.
Health officials warned that symptoms such as fever, skin rash, red eyes, cough, and running nose should not be ignored. Parents and guardians have been urged to seek immediate medical attention for children showing signs of illness.
Authorities emphasized that vaccination remains the most effective protection against measles and appealed to families to ensure that children receive all recommended immunizations.
The government also called on communities to cooperate with health workers during surveillance and response activities aimed at containing the outbreak before it spreads further across the country.
Public health officials said monitoring teams have already been deployed in affected districts to strengthen case detection, contact tracing, and public awareness campaigns.
Hospitals and health centres nationwide have also been placed on alert to promptly identify and manage suspected cases.
The Ministry of Health reassured the public that efforts are ongoing to contain the outbreak and protect vulnerable populations, especially children under five years old.
Citizens have further been encouraged to report suspected measles cases to the nearest health facility to support early treatment and prevent further transmission.
Health authorities stressed that public cooperation will play a major role in controlling the outbreak and reducing the risk of additional infections in communities nationwide.
The government says it remains committed to safeguarding public health and ensuring that emergency response measures are strengthened across all affected districts.
