Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
A case of Lassa fever has been confirmed in Delta State. It is a 65-year-old lady from Ifiogwari village, Ayamelunu, Anambra State who came for treatment in Asaba, Delta State.
She was first admitted at St. Joseph’s Hospital before she was referred to Federal Medical Centre, Asaba when her conditioned worsened.
The case was confirmed at the virology laboratory, Specialist Hospital, Irrua, Edo State. Two other samples sent to the same laboratory tested negative.
The Delta State Rapid Response Team said it has placed 22 persons who had contact with the confirmed case on surveillance, while five samples have been sent for laboratory investigation.
The Delta State Government has already informed the Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja on these developments and the State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has provided the necessary logistics to enhance contact tracing and other control measures.
Lassa fever is caused by a virus found in the urine and faeces of a species of rat when they contaminate food or water or come in contact with broken skin of humans.
Infected persons spread the disease when their body fluids such as blood, faeces, urine, sperm and vomit come in contact with others.
Some signs and symptoms of Lassa fever infection include cold and fever, sore throat, headache, pains in different parts of the body, nausea, cough, diarrhea and general sense of being unwell.
Severe stage of the infection comes with swellings on the face and hand, bleeding in different parts of the body such as ears, mouth, nose, anus and virginal.
Residents are advised to maintain a high level of personal and environmental hygiene, keep their food and water away from rats and promptly report any one with the above signs and symptoms to the nearest health centre or hospital or call the following numbers 08037438829, 07037120510 and 08179338777.
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