Strengthening Health Systems in Sierra Leone: Combating Infectious and Climate-Related Diseases for a Resilient Future

Rising temperatures are making life harder in Sierra Leone, creating a higher risk for diseases that spread through vectors and animals. Currently, the country already deals with serious health issues like malaria and Lassa fever. Malaria, for instance, causes about 38% of hospital visits, which strains the healthcare system that’s already under pressure. Socioeconomic factors also play a large role in these health challenges.

A recent study noted that Sierra Leone’s average annual temperature has jumped by 0.8 °C in the last fifty years. If current trends continue, we may see an additional rise of 1.1 °C by 2030 and 2.2 °C by 2050. These increases aren’t just numbers; they impact how diseases thrive. For example, higher temperatures favor the growth of Mastomys natalensis, a rodent that carries Lassa fever. The most affected areas are the Northern and Eastern provinces, which already face various socioeconomic difficulties. This makes the task of improving public health especially urgent.

Flooding is another big issue. Events between 2012 and 2017 devastated communities, affecting thousands and causing great loss. A lack of a good disaster management plan means that when flooding occurs, people often have to fend for themselves. This creates environments perfect for mosquitoes, which can spread diseases like malaria and cholera. In 2019, more than half the population lacked access to safe drinking water, worsening health disparities and making it hard for families to stay well.

Food insecurity is also a pressing concern. In 2022, an alarming 81% of households faced food shortages, with 14.9% in extreme cases. This situation leads to malnutrition, which affects about 26% of the population, particularly children under five. Poor agricultural practices and climate changes are directly linked to lower food production, further aggravating health issues.

Rising temperatures are also linked to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). As heat stress increases, these diseases become more prevalent. However, the healthcare system is not equipped to handle this growing crisis, primarily focusing on infectious diseases instead. This oversight puts an extra strain on an already fragile healthcare system.

Moreover, sea level rise is threatening the lives of nearly 2 million people along the Sierra Leone coast. Communities are at risk of losing everything they have, leading to more poverty and food scarcity. The lack of effective monitoring and adaptive strategies to tackle this challenge adds to the pressure on public health.

Experts highlight the need for integrated strategies that target not just health but also social, economic, and environmental factors. For example, public health initiatives that incorporate climate change adaptation can address multiple issues simultaneously. This approach is vital in moving toward Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the care and resources they need.

By focusing on comprehensive solutions, Sierra Leone can work toward a healthier future for its people, despite the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and health disparities.

For further insights, consider checking out the World Bank Climate Change Knowledge Portal.

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Climate change,Health system,Emergency,Health Policy,Public Health,Global Health,Sierra Leone,Infectious Diseases,Tropical Medicine