In a recent development, the Ministry of Health in Ebonyi State has revealed a concerning rise in Lassa Fever cases. The viral disease has claimed the lives of 10 individuals between January 4 and February 16, 2024.
The information was made public by Mr Sampson Orogwu, the Disease Surveillance Notification Officer of the ministry, through an official statement released in Abakaliki. According to Orogwu, the disease has infected 25 individuals, including two healthcare workers. He further detailed that "16 out of the 25 infected persons are males, while nine are females."
Among the deceased are a pregnant woman and two children, a fact that underscores the severity of the situation. The areas most affected by this outbreak include Onicha, Ikwo, Ezza North, Ebonyi, Izzi, Ohaukwu, and Abakaliki. Within Abakaliki, the Hausa quarters and Nkaliki areas have recorded the highest number of cases.
Orogwu has urged residents to report any suspected cases to the ministry, emphasising that treatment is available at no cost.
Dr Ogbonna Nwambeke, the State Epidemiologist, also contributed to the statement. He highlighted the state government's ongoing collaboration with relevant partners to curb the spread of the disease. He said, "We call for the provision of logistics to increase surveillance and community engagement against risk factors."
The public has been advised to cease bush burning, avoid consuming rats, and refrain from touching any surface that an infected person has come into contact with. Maintaining high levels of personal and environmental hygiene, such as properly covering food and utensils, is also strongly recommended.
Dr Nwambeke expressed gratitude for the state government's provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) to health workers at the National Obstetrics Fistula Centre. This measure is crucial in protecting the lives of healthcare workers and, by extension, the patients they serve.
Lassa fever, caused by the Lassa virus, is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness. The virus belongs to the arenavirus family and humans usually contract it through exposure to food or household items contaminated with urine or faeces of infected Mastomys rats. The disease is prevalent in West Africa, with most people experiencing mild symptoms like fever and headache.