The number of new Ebola infections in Sierra Leone is declining, despite the outbreak continuing to claim lives. New cases have dropped to around 9-12 per week, according to recent WHO figures. There were over 500 cases per week at the height of the crisis around late November 2014. The impact on t ... he lives of the thousands of people directly affected by the disease has been devastating. It has caused substantial suffering to many others, leaving the population very vulnerable. more

Ebola Outbreak in West Africa: Impact on Health Service Utilisation in Sierra Leone

Summary of lessons learned Self-imposed quarantine has proved less problematic. The timely and reliable delivery of resources (e.g. food/water) and expertise (e.g. contact tracing/safe and dignified burials) is essential to ensure cooperation and deter quarantine violation. The commun ... ities’ understanding of the benefits of quarantine and its role in stopping the outbreak is essential. Coercion is counterproductive. more