Anambra records 15 suspected cases of Lassa fever, one death

Anambra State has confirmed 15 suspected cases of Lassa fever and one death on Thursday in Awka.

“In Anambra, we have recorded 15 suspected cases of Lassa fever and one death since the year began,” Commissioner for Health, Afam Obidike, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Mr Obidike said the state’s emergency team was already responding to the suspected cases and had put in place relevant surveillance measures to curtail further spread.

He said the government had constituted contact-tracing teams to follow up on identified cases.

“The Ministry of Health is following the national guidelines in managing cases of Lassa fever in Anambra.

“We have started contact tracing to manage the situation and prevent further spread,” he told NAN.

The commissioner urged residents to reduce the risk of Lassa fever by always keeping their environment clean.

“Block all holes in your house to prevent rats from entering. Cover your dustbins and dispose of refuse properly.

“Practice good personal and hand hygiene by frequently washing hands with soap under running water,” he charged residents.

Mr Obidike also advised residents to visit the nearest health facility if they noticed signs or symptoms of Lassa fever, which include fever, weakness, headaches, vomiting and muscle pains.

Lassa fever, also known as Lassa Haemorrhagic Fever, is a viral illness caused by contact with food or household items contaminated with rodents’ urine or faeces, which bear the Lassa virus.

As of 22 January, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) said 84 per cent of all confirmed Lassa fever cases were reported from Ondo, Edo and Bauchi states.

On the outbreak of Diphtheria, Mr Obidike said Anambra had not recorded any case and that the health ministry had taken proactive measures to guard against the spread of the disease.

NCDC also confirmed 123 cases of Diphtheria and 38 deaths in four states as of 22 January.

(NAN)