Nigeria Battles Lassa Fever: Rising Concerns and Preventative Measures

Nigeria faces a severe Lassa fever crisis with 535 confirmed cases and 98 deaths reported. A case with ties to the UK intensified the situation, prompting contact tracing. The NCDC urges awareness and preventative measures, stressing early diagnosis for survival. The disease spreads through contaminated food or contact with infected individuals.

Nigeria is grappling with a serious Lassa fever outbreak, having reported 535 confirmed cases and 98 fatalities across 14 states since the beginning of the year. With an 18.3% case fatality rate, the situation remains dire.

A recent case involving a patient who died after returning from the United Kingdom has heightened international concern, leading health officials in both countries to initiate contact tracing. The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has issued an advisory, stressing that heightened awareness and preventive measures are crucial, particularly for healthcare workers and travelers to affected regions.

The NCDC underscores the importance of early symptom recognition for successful treatment outcomes. Lassa fever, commonly transmitted through contaminated food or contact with rodent excrement, also spreads via bodily fluids. States like Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi remain most affected, with symptoms ranging from fever and headaches to severe, life-threatening conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)