Anambra confirms one death in 15 suspected cases of lassa fever

Maduako Igbokwe l Friday, January 27, 2023

 

AWKA, Nigeria – The Anambra State Government has confirmed 15 suspected cases of Lassa Fever  and one death in   the state in January .

Commissioner for Health  Dr Afam Obidike made the confirmation on Thursday in Awka, Anambra State capital. He said   the state’s emergency response team was  responding to the suspected cases.

Obidike said that the team has put in place relevant surveillance measures to curtail the spread of the disease in the state. He further said the state government has constituted contact tracing teams to follow up on the cases.

“So far in Anambra state, we have recorded 15 suspected cases of Lassa fever and one death. The ministry is following  the National guidelines in managing the cases of Lassa fever in the state. And we have started contact tracing to manage the situation and prevent further spread,’ he said.

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

“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 said.

He also advised residents to visit the nearest health facility if they notice any of the signs and symptoms associated with Lassa fever which includes fever,  weakness, headaches, vomiting and muscle pains.

On the outbreak of Diphtheria, the Commissioner said that the state had not recorded any case and that the state ministry is on high alert and taking proactive measures to guard against the spread of the disease to the state.