By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has announced the implementation of enhanced Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) prevention and health screening measures at the Freetown International Airport (FIA) following reports of the disease's emergence within the West African sub-region.

In a public notice issued on May 29, 2026, the Director General of the SLCAA, Musayeroh Barrie, assured the public that the Authority has taken proactive steps to safeguard public health, protect passengers and aviation personnel and prevent any possible cross-border transmission of the virus through air travel.

According to the notice, the enhanced measures form part of the Government of Sierra Leone’s broader efforts to maintain vigilance against Ebola and strengthen national preparedness in line with international aviation health standards and public health directives.

As part of the intervention, health personnel stationed at the airport are undergoing continuous sensitization and briefing sessions on Ebola Virus Disease, including updates on symptoms, transmission methods, case detection and approved preventive protocols. The initiative is intended to ensure that frontline workers remain fully prepared to identify and respond to any potential health-related concerns.

The Authority has also deployed Ebola awareness and preventive information materials throughout the airport terminal to educate passengers, visitors and staff on safety measures and health guidelines. The awareness campaign is expected to improve public understanding of the disease and encourage compliance with preventive measures.

In addition, mandatory hand sanitization has been introduced at designated points across the airport premises. All passengers, staff members and visitors are required to sanitize their hands before accessing key airport facilities.

To further strengthen surveillance, routine temperature screening is being conducted for all passengers and airport users. Airport officials say the screening process is designed to identify individuals who may require further medical assessment while ensuring minimal disruption to passenger movement.

The airport clinic has also been placed on full operational readiness to promptly handle any suspected health incidents. Medical personnel and equipment have been prepared to ensure swift response and effective management of any situation that may arise.

Where necessary, social distancing measures have been introduced within passenger processing and waiting areas to reduce potential health risks and maintain a safe environment for travelers and airport workers.

Additionally, an ambulance has been positioned on standby at the airport to facilitate rapid medical evacuation and emergency response in the event of any suspected Ebola case or other health emergency.

Director General Musayeroh Barrie emphasized that the health and safety of travelers and airport personnel remain a top priority for the Authority. She reassured the public that the measures currently in place are precautionary and designed to ensure the continued safety and security of Sierra Leone’s aviation sector.

“The SLCAA remains committed to protecting the integrity of the national aviation system while prioritizing the health and wellbeing of all users,” the statement noted.

The Authority has urged members of the public to remain calm, adhere to all health and safety instructions while at the airport and cooperate fully with health officials and airport personnel.

With international travel continuing to play a vital role in regional connectivity and economic development, the SLCAA says it will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with relevant health authorities to ensure that all necessary precautions remain in place. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-intensifies-ebola-screening-and-prevention-measures-at-freetown-international-airport/