Cross River State Ministry of Health has issued a warning about an outbreak of Lassa fever, which has already resulted in one death in the Ejah Community of Osupong Ward 1, Obubra Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement released on Thursday and signed by the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Egbe Ayuk, citizens were informed about the outbreak following an investigation conducted on the deceased. The investigation confirmed that he died from Lassa fever.
The statement explained, “This is to inform the public of the Lassa fever outbreak in the Ejah Community of Osupong Ward 1, Obubra LGA. The investigation has been completed today, and the details of the deceased, who was a resident of Obubra, were obtained from the Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebony State. It has been confirmed that he died from Lassa fever.”
As a result of the outbreak, the Cross River State Emergency Operation Centre has been activated. The State Rapid Response Team will join the LGA team and head to Obubra on Thursday to carry out several measures. These include contact tracing, line listing, and decontamination of affected premises.
Furthermore, steps are being taken to raise awareness about the outbreak and to ensure effective risk communication. The mobilization of Lassa fever commodities, consumables, and personal protective equipment to General Hospital Obubra and other locations has also been activated.
Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness that is transmitted to humans through contact with feces or urine of infected rats. It can also be contracted through direct contact with bodily fluids of an infected person. Symptoms of Lassa fever include fever, weakness, headaches, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
The Cross River State Ministry of Health has urged citizens to take preventive measures, such as maintaining proper hygiene, avoiding contact with rodents, and keeping food safe. They have also encouraged people to report any suspected cases to the appropriate health authorities.
Efforts are underway to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the disease. The Ministry of Health is working closely with healthcare professionals, health workers, and the relevant authorities to ensure a swift and effective response to this public health emergency.
