Buruli Ulcer in Sierra Leone

In Tonkolili District in central Sierra Leone, the hospital partnership between the University of Münster and Masanga Hospital is continuing in order to support the establishment of an optimised diagnostic and treatment programme for Buruli ulcer.

Background:
Buruli ulcer is a neglected tropical disease that primarily affects the rural population of Sierra Leone. The country’s government has set itself the goal of eradicating this condition. To support this, the molecular diagnostics infrastructure at Masanga Hospital needs to be upgraded. This would make it possible to spot the disease early and offer affected patients targeted treatment in order to prevent long-term effects.

Activities:
- Setting up administrative and diagnostic facilities at the hospital and procuring consumable supplies
- Providing practical training in diagnostic methods at Masanga Hospital
- Providing training in therapeutic management of Buruli ulcer
- Carrying out a project evaluation

Impact:
Thanks to the diagnostic facilities, Masanga Hospital now offers reliable and affordable diagnostic testing of Buruli ulcer. Providing training for 30-40 hospital staff is expected to produce multiplier effects, which should help improve treatment for affected patients throughout the country.