The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Agency (NPHA), has issued a public health advisory on Hantavirus awareness and preparedness following reports of infections linked to an international cruise ship outbreak.
In the public notice dated May 10, 2026, health authorities stated that while they are closely monitoring the international situation, the current risk to the ECOWAS region, including Sierra Leone, remains low.
The notice explained that Hantavirus is a rare viral disease commonly spread through contact with infected rodents such as rats and mice, particularly through exposure to their urine, saliva, or droppings in dusty or poorly ventilated environments.
Health officials also noted that, although rare, limited human-to-human transmission has been reported in cases involving the Andes strain of the virus.
According to the advisory, symptoms associated with Hantavirus may include fever, headache, fatigue, muscle pain, vomiting, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing in severe cases.
The Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Agency reassured the public that there are currently no confirmed cases of Hantavirus in Sierra Leone.
Authorities further disclosed that surveillance systems at points of entry and health facilities across the country have been strengthened to support early detection and rapid response efforts.
The government also stated that collaboration with regional and international health partners is ongoing to ensure timely information sharing and preparedness measures.
As part of preventive efforts, officials announced plans to intensify Risk Communication and Community Engagement interventions aimed at keeping communities informed and aware.
The public was advised to maintain proper hygiene and environmental sanitation by keeping homes and surroundings clean, storing food safely, and disposing waste appropriately to prevent rodent infestation.
Residents were also encouraged to wear protective gear while cleaning rodent-infested areas and to seek medical attention or contact emergency health services if flu-like symptoms develop after rodent exposure or recent travel.
Health authorities urged citizens to remain calm, avoid spreading misinformation, and rely only on updates from official government channels.
The notice was signed by Foday Sahr, Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency.