Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mariam Ileyemi
Published on 2024-02-24 06:38:45
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed that Lassa Fever was responsible for the death of three health workers and one patient at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Kaduna (44 NARHK) in Kaduna State. The NCDC reported that four out of the six blood samples from suspected cases at the hospital sent to the Bayero University Teaching Hospital in Kano have tested positive for Lassa fever.
The Director-General of the NCDC, Jide Idris, shared this information during a press briefing in Abuja, stating that 25 close contacts of all the cases are currently being monitored and have been placed on prophylactic medicine. In response to this outbreak, the Kaduna State Government launched an immediate investigation following reports from the army’s medical authorities linking the symptoms of the deceased to acute Viral Hemorrhagic Fever (VHF).
Further details provided by the NCDC DG revealed that Nigeria has recorded 2,621 suspected Lassa fever cases, with 476 confirmed cases and 84 deaths as of February 18. The NCDC has activated a multi-sectoral multi-disciplinary Incident Management System to distribute medical supplies for case management, infection prevention, and control in all Lassa fever treatment centers across the country. Additionally, the agency has initiated capacity-building exercises for healthcare workers on Lassa fever preparedness, readiness, and response through the pilot Lassa fever clinical management fellowship.
Mr. Idris emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean environment and sealing all entry points in households to prevent rats and other rodents from entering. He also advised healthcare workers to adhere to standard infection prevention and control practices to prevent the spread of the disease.
Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents or individuals. Common symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pains, chest pain, and in severe cases, unexplained bleeding from various body openings.
In the midst of this outbreak, the NCDC continues to coordinate response efforts and educate the public on preventive measures to mitigate the spread of Lassa fever. Stay informed, maintain good hygiene practices, and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms associated with the disease. Let’s work together to combat the spread of Lassa fever and protect the health and well-being of our communities.
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