MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), under the leadership of Director-General Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, has heightened its surveillance and preventive measures in response to a suspected case of Haemorrhagic Fever Virus (HFV) infection in Sierra Leone. This decision follows discussions between Dr. Nyan and the Executive Director of Sierra Leone’s National Public Health Agency (NPHA), Prof. Dr. Foday Sahr, on December 1, 2024.
Dr. Sahr informed Dr. Nyan that test results for the suspected case were “indeterminate” and that several contacts were undergoing a 21-day observation period. Both public health leaders affirmed that their respective agencies’ current measures were appropriate and agreed to intensify regional surveillance to prevent the potential spread of the virus.
In a formal letter to Dr. Sahr, Dr. Nyan emphasized NPHIL’s commitment to regional public health security. He highlighted the activation of Liberia’s Response/Surveillance Structures, particularly at border crossings, to ensure the safety of public health in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the broader region. The letter also requested additional information on contacts listed and test results from the 34 Military Hospital in Sierra Leone.
“The National Public Health Institute of Liberia is fully committed to collaborating with Sierra Leonean health authorities to address this public health concern and safeguard our nations,” Dr. Nyan stated.
Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, a medical doctor and infectious disease expert, has earned global recognition for his work in biomedical research and public health advocacy. A winner of the 2017 African Innovation Prize for Social Impact, Dr. Nyan is celebrated for developing rapid and affordable diagnostic tools, including a novel multiplex isothermal amplification method for detecting infectious diseases.
Dr. Nyan’s leadership during the West African Ebola crisis showcased his ability to mobilize resources and provide critical support to affected communities. He led the Diaspora Task Force on the Ebola Crisis, coordinated medical personnel deployment, and provided expert testimony before the U.S. Congress. His research has been widely published in prestigious journals such as Scientific Reports and Clinical Infectious Diseases.
The suspected HFV case stresses the need for robust cross-border collaboration in public health. Both NPHIL and NPHA have committed to working together to ensure the timely exchange of information and the implementation of effective containment measures.
Dr. Nyan’s ongoing efforts to advance public health systems and promote innovative diagnostic solutions continue to play a critical role in safeguarding the region against emerging infectious diseases.
As investigations into the suspected case progress, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive health guidelines issued by local authorities.
