Sharp Rise in Lassa Fever Cases Worrisome, Edo Govt
Sharp rise in Lassa Fever Cases is worrisome to Edo State Government, Commissioner for Health Professor Akoria Obehi has raised concerns.
Prof. Obehi at a news conference announced that the State now has total Lassa Fever cases of 23 currently receiving treatment at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital.
The rise in Lassa fever cases was by 18 within one week says, Obehi.
The commissioner said government is indeed worried at the unprecedented rise in the cases within a short period noting, “The 23 patients, including 17 adults and six children, are currently receiving care at the Irua Specialist Teaching Hospital.” Obehi however reassures that government is commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of every Edo resident.
Prof Obehi said, government has stepped up surveillance, sensitization, and other measures to stop the spread of the disease and protect residents in all Edo communities.
Expressing her worry over the unprecedented rise in the Lassa Fever infections, the commissioner appeals for the the support and cooperation of residents of the State at controlling the spread.
Prof. Obehi listed the local government areas most hit by the disease to include Esan West, Etsako West, Esan North East, Esan Central, Etsako Central, Esan South East and Etsako East.
According to her, “The Emergency Operation Centre for Lassa fever has been activated in Edo State from January 5 and since then held over three meetings.
She revealed that the various pillars of the State’s Emergency Operation Centre have been activated to take in various forms of emergency that could come up within the state.
“The Infection, Prevention and Control pillar is currently working on contacting the Diseases Notification and Surveillance Officers in the various local government areas to beef up infection control. We have stepped up communication with messages being developed and disseminated to sensitize people in their local languages.
‘We will also be meeting with local council stakeholders today in Edo Central. We will be meeting with the Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA) of the seven affected LGAs, as well as the market women, Enogies, and the healthcare practitioners in the LGAs, among other stakeholders.”
Worrying on the rise in the infections, the Obehi said, “This is an emergency situation, and we want people to be aware and for everyone to support the government’s efforts in curbing the spread of Lassa fever by complying with guidelines to stay healthy and safe.”
She charged, “Wash your hands frequently with soap and water; avoid contact with rat urine or feces; avoid consuming contaminated food or water and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms of Lassa fever, such as fever, headache, muscle pain, and weakness.”
