Deadly Lassa Fever HAVOC On Rampage: 172 Nigerians killed, Health Workers At Risk As NCDC Cries Out

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October 14th , 2024

Jesse Kwao

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DEADLY LASSA FEVER HAVOC ON RAMPAGE: 172 NIGERIANS KILLED, HEALTH WORKERS AT RISK AS NCDC CRIES OUT

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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported that Lassa fever claimed 172 lives and resulted in 1, 018 confirmed cases from a total of 8, 411 suspected cases. The cases were documented across 128 local government areas in 28 states. The virus has shown a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 16. 9%, underscoring the severity of this outbreak.

Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness, is caused by the Lassa virus, which belongs to the arenavirus family. It is primarily transmitted to humans through exposure to food or household items contaminated with the urine or feces of infected Mastomys rats, a type of rodent commonly found in West African countries where the disease is endemic. In Nigeria, as well as other affected countries like Benin, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Sierra Leone, and Togo, the virus poses a persistent public health threat.

While rats are the primary vectors, Lassa fever can also spread from person to person, particularly in healthcare settings where infection control measures are inadequate. Healthcare workers are at heightened risk, especially when managing cases without proper protective equipment. The NCDC' s report shows that during week 39 of 2024, nine new cases were confirmed in Ondo and Edo States, marking an increase from the four cases reported the previous week. Overall, 68% of this year' s cases have been reported in the states of Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi, making them the most affected regions.

The demographic most impacted by Lassa fever this year falls within the 31 to 40 age range, with an equal distribution between men and women. This highlights that adults in their prime working years are at a significant risk. The NCDC' s surveillance and containment strategies, however, aim to address these risks and prevent further transmission.

To mitigate the outbreak, the NCDC has mobilized its multi- sectoral Lassa fever Technical Working Group, which coordinates efforts to combat the disease at various levels. This group includes representatives from different health sectors, working to enhance early detection, ensure prompt treatment, and improve public awareness on preventive measures. The NCDC' s approach involves both proactive and reactive measures. Proactively, it seeks to enhance surveillance, particularly in high- risk areas, and improve the response capacity of healthcare facilities. Reactively, it responds to reported cases with rapid intervention teams that provide support in diagnosis, patient care, and contact tracing.

In addition to these measures, the NCDC is also focusing on community engagement and education. Given that Lassa fever transmission often stems from inadequate hygiene practices and insufficient rodent control, public health campaigns emphasize the importance of maintaining a clean environment and safely storing food to prevent rodent access. The public is also urged to report any suspected cases early and to seek prompt medical care if symptoms such as fever, malaise, or bleeding occur.

International organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have provided support, reinforcing the collaborative effort needed to manage Lassa fever. Their assistance includes funding, technical support, and resources for treatment and laboratory testing. This international collaboration enhances the NCDC' s capacity to respond swiftly and effectively, especially as the virus remains a recurring public health issue in the region.

While Lassa fever continues to pose a significant challenge, the concerted efforts of the NCDC, healthcare workers, and international partners are crucial in curbing the spread and reducing fatalities. Strengthening healthcare systems, improving hygiene practices, and raising public awareness are vital steps toward controlling the current outbreak and preventing future occurrences. With ongoing surveillance and rapid response initiatives, the NCDC remains focused on reducing the impact of Lassa fever on Nigeria' s population.

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