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Disseminating research findings on emerging zoonotic viruses is a complex and sensitive process, particularly in contexts with histories of outbreaks. It requires an operational framework that considers the social and political context of stakeholders aiming to empower people to protect their health, while also supporting government leaders to advance global health security., Key Messages We discuss the complexities and challenges in disseminating research findings on the discovery of a new ebolavirus in bats in Sierra Leone, particularly in light of the previous outbreaks.This experience pointed to the tensions that can arise between discoveries of emerging viruses with zoonotic potential and their impact on the people in direct proximity to the ecosystems in which they are found as well as on the governments charged with protecting the health of those people.Future research may benefit from considering the following: (1) prioritize dissemination of findings as a distinct step within a project with a detailed plan, (2) understand and support the role of government leaders in the dissemination process, and (3) prioritize the perspectives and potential reactions of communities when framing information and recommendations.