RED ALERT! Lassa fever spreading FAST, confirmed in four states (See list)

– The NCDC says the Lassa fever is spreading fast and has hit four states in just about two weeks

– It has put states on red alert and told them to remember all that they must do to prevent a full-scale outbreak

– NCDC is however delighted that the detection of the outbreak was quick as this will help to stem the rate of infection

An infected rat is being studied for Lassa fever infection

The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed five fresh cases of Lassa fever in four states in  Nigeria.

The agency said the case were discovered just between the end of August and September.

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According to Premium Times, the agency listed the confirmed cases as two in Plateau state, one each in Rivers, Bauchi and Gombe states.

“The case reported from Gombe died on 22nd August 2016, all other cases are alive,” NCDC said in a statement on Friday, September 2 while also saying that instant efforts have commenced immediately in all the affected states to protect people.

“Resources were immediately mobilised from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and its partner, the Nigerian Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (NFELTP), to support the investigation and management of cases in the affected states,” the statement said.

Head of NCDC, Chikwe Ihekweazu applauded the early detection because it would allow room for adequate protection.

“We commend the early detection and reporting of the most recent cases, as it significantly improves the likelihood of survival for the cases and also reduces the risk of further transmission.

“We also urge all States to report cases immediately for Lassa fever while improving on the timeliness of their reporting generally”.
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All states of the federation have now been warned to be on red alert and be reminded of the steps they have to take to prepare and respond to cases of Lassa fever and other haemorragic fevers

“The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control remains committed to supporting the States to prevent the spread of Lassa fever in Nigeria.

“For further media inquiry on Lassa Fever in Nigeria, you can reach NCDC via Facebook Messenger on m.me/NCDCgov. Our website is currently being redesigned to improve our communication opportunities,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, a medical doctor and three other persons were said to have died of Lassa fever in Anambra state last week.

The medical doctor, who was reported to have died at Nnamdi Azikiwe university teaching hospital was referred to the hospital from Asaba, Delta state.

Apart from the medical doctor, the director of public health in the state, Dr. Emmanuel Okafor, said three other deaths, resulting from Lassa fever, had also been recorded in the state.

The post RED ALERT! Lassa fever spreading FAST, confirmed in four states (See list) appeared first on Nigeria News today & Breaking news | Read Naij.com 24/7.

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