Lassa fever virus continues to pose a major public health challenge in Nigeria. According to the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC), the number of new confirmed cases increased from 70 last week to 83 this week, with nine deaths recorded between February 5 and 11.
NCDC data shows that 65% of all confirmed cases are from Ondo, Edo and Bauchi states, while 35% were reported from 17 other states. The age group most affected by Lassa fever is 21-30 year olds, and two new healthcare workers were affected during the reporting week.
To address this health emergency, the NCDC activated the multi-partner, multi-sector Lassa fever incident management system, with the establishment of an Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response to all levels.
The NCDC has identified several challenges in combating Lassa fever, including delays in case presentation, high cost of treatment and clinical management, environmental unsanitary conditions and lack of awareness in the most affected communities. .
Lassa fever is an acute hemorrhagic viral disease transmitted to humans through contact with food or household objects contaminated by infected rodents or contaminated people. Symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, general weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain, chest pain and, in severe cases, unexplainable bleeding.
To protect against Lassa fever, it is recommended to reduce exposure to rodents and their droppings, seal holes or cracks in homes to prevent rodents from entering, wash hands frequently with soap and water, and store foods in airtight containers and cook them carefully.
If contamination is suspected, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional without delay. Raising awareness and following precautionary measures are essential to prevent the spread of Lassa fever and protect the population against this potentially fatal disease.