By Rose Aba Akafo

Health authorities in Sierra Leone have confirmed a measles outbreak in the West African nation, with 41 confirmed cases recorded between January and April 2026. No death has been reported. 

The country’s public health agency, NPHA, said Freetown is the most affected area, accounting for 36 percent of infections reported across eight of the country’s 16 districts.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, the NPHA reassured the public that “there is no need for panic,” noting that measles is both preventable and treatable, and that the situation remains under control.

However, the agency urges citizens to remain vigilant and report suspected cases via the 117 toll-free emergency line.

“We urge communities to cooperate with health authorities and act promptly to protect their families,” the statement said.

The agency also advised parents and guardians not to send sick children to school and warned against self-medication at home.

Meanwhile, health officials have started deploying field teams to affected areas to implement “ring vaccination” around confirmed cases in a bid to interrupt transmission and contain the outbreak.