In response to the growing number of Mpox cases in Sierra Leone, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has rolled out a series of public health safety measures at the Freetown International Airport (FNA). The measures, introduced through the National Civil Aviation Facilitation Committee (NCAFC), are effective immediately and aim to strengthen disease prevention and ensure safe travel.
The SLCAA’s newly implemented protocols include:
• Temperature Screening: Thermal imaging cameras have been installed at the main terminal entrance to automatically detect high body temperatures. Passengers showing elevated temperatures will be referred to the airport’s medical unit for further evaluation, following Ministry of Health and Sanitation guidelines.
• Sanitization Stations: In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, alcohol-based hand sanitizers have been placed throughout the airport terminal to encourage proper hygiene among travelers and staff.
• Staff Vaccination: SLCAA has confirmed that 300 essential airport staff have already been vaccinated against Mpox. Efforts continue in partnership with the Ministry of Health to achieve full vaccination coverage for all airport personnel.
• Safe Distancing: Passengers and the general public are required to maintain physical distancing at all times within the airport premises.
The SLCAA has called on all travelers to fully comply with these preventive measures, emphasizing that collective vigilance is key to maintaining a safe travel environment for everyone using the Freetown International Airport.
By Ina Brown
