VIDEO Spike in pregnancies and abuse in Ebola-hit Sierra Leone

Key Points Covered​

• Impact on Education: The closure of schools has left many children, especially girls, vulnerable, leading to increased instances of early teenage pregnancies. With young people confined to their communities with limited options for engagement, personal interactions have risen, subsequently elevating pregnancy rates.
• Community Trauma: The psychological burden of living through an epidemic has resulted in significant collective trauma, resulting in growing stress among the population. This heightened stress contributes to increased frustration, anger, and ultimately, violence.
• Exploitation and Abuse: There’s a disturbing rise in transactional sex driven by socioeconomic desperation. Many young people are resorting to selling themselves in exchange for basic necessities, including food and mobile phones, exacerbating their vulnerabilities.
• Increased Risks: The confluence of prolonged school closures, economic hardship, and societal upheaval during the Ebola crisis underscores the potential for increased violence and exploitation in the region.

  Call to Action​

  This discussion raises critical questions for the community: What support systems can be strengthened to assist youth in these affected regions? How can international communities mobilize resources effectively to mitigate these emerging social issues?

  Engage with the Community​

  I'd love to hear your thoughts on these issues and any suggestions you might have for addressing such vulnerabilities. Additionally, if you've seen similar discussions or initiatives relating to public health crises, please share them! Let's foster this dialogue to explore solutions and support those impacted. Remember, addressing these issues isn't just about understanding the problem but also about being proactive in finding ways to help.