Sierra Leone strengthens mpox and Ebola prevention
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Sierra Loaded
Illustrative image · Asad Photo Maldives · Pexels · Licence PexelsSierra Leone's National Public Health Agency brought together high-risk groups in the Western Area to strengthen mpox prevention and Ebola preparedness. The initiative, supported by Japan and carried out with the WHO, is intended to improve early warning and community participation, according to Sierra Loaded.
Sierra Leone's National Public Health Agency (NPHA), together with the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organisation (WHO), organised a session for high-risk groups in the Western Area to strengthen mpox prevention and preparedness for the Ebola virus. The initiative is funded by Japan and forms part of the country's efforts to improve risk communication, community mobilisation and local epidemic preparedness, Sierra Loaded reports.
Representatives of the NPHA, WHO and the Japanese government stressed community participation and early detection of cases. The meeting notably allowed community leaders and representatives of high-risk groups to ask questions about local health concerns, reporting procedures and public health recommendations, according to Sierra Loaded.
Participants took part in small-group discussions and a question-and-answer session. The NPHA said the feedback gathered would directly inform the development of preparedness arrangements for mpox, Ebola and other priority health threats in Sierra Leone, according to Sierra Loaded.
