Sierra Leone: New Case Of Ebola Confirmed ^Featured

If you’re concerned that you might have been exposed to Ebola, or are showing symptoms, you should seek immediate medical advice.

Travellers in ebola risk areas should follow these simple precautions to minimise their risk of Ebola virus disease infection:

• Wash hands frequently using soap and water;
• Make sure fruit and veg is properly washed and peeled before you eat it;
• Avoid physical contact with anyone who has symptoms;
• Avoid dense and crowded places where people may be infected;
• Don't handle dead animals or their raw meat;
• Don't eat "bushmeat".

Accessing Medical Care In Sierra Leone

Accessing medical care in Sierra Leone may be difficult due to the fact that the health infrastructure has been severely strained by the Ebola outbreak. Although separate medical and treatment facilities were set up to respond to the outbreak, general medical facilities throughout Sierra Leone are unable to provide the same standard of healthcare as in the UK. Also, many medical facilities expect to be paid up-front for treatment.

If you travel to Sierra Leone, especially whilst on business, you should stay in contact with your employer or host organisation about the support that they can provide to you while you’re in the country, and if you should wish to leave. Screening measures are in place for both inbound and outbound travellers at Lungi International Airport.

If you travel outside the Freetown peninsula, try to complete your travel during the hours of daylight, inform your employers of your whereabouts and make sure they have copies of your itinerary. Temperature screening check points are in operation on the main roads outside of the capital and can be busy.

Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel to Sierra Leone and make sure your insurance specifically includes medical repatriation and evacuation coverage.