Inclusive Health Communication Initiative Launched to Support Disabled Communities Against Lassa Fever, Ebola, and Mpox

The Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS), in partnership with the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) and the Ministry of Social Welfare, has launched a targeted health awareness initiative featuring Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials aimed at helping individuals with disabilities stay informed about the health risks of Lassa fever, Ebola, and Mpox. This initiative, designed to enhance public health inclusivity, ensures that essential information on disease symptoms, transmission, prevention, and treatment is accessible and tailored to meet the needs of disabled individuals.


The materials, developed with support from Breakthrough ACTION, incorporate diverse accessible formats—large print, braille, simplified language, audio recordings, and visual aids—ensuring that information reaches individuals with varying types of disabilities. This inclusive approach was developed in consultation with disability advocates, ensuring that the content addresses real-world needs and is clearly understood.

The orientation session, held at the Ministry of Social Welfare’s Conference Hall in Freetown, brought together stakeholders and representatives from disabled communities, who discussed the importance of eliminating communication barriers in public health. By creating reliable and comprehensible resources, the initiative empowers disabled individuals with knowledge, enabling them to take preventive actions in the event of a health crisis.


A representative from the Ministry of Social Welfare emphasized that this initiative not only supports disabled individuals but also strengthens public health resilience. “Health inclusivity is vital to achieving better health outcomes for everyone in society,” the representative stated, adding that the initiative aims to create a more informed and prepared population.


Looking forward, MoHS and NPHA plan to expand this inclusive communication model to other health topics, continuing their commitment to equity in public health. This initiative stands as a meaningful step toward a more inclusive health system, promoting resilience and preparedness across all sectors of Sierra Leonean society.



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