.A scientist's gloved hand holding a brown rat with a fluid filled syringe appearing inserted in the animal.
MONDAY, JUNE 10, 2024. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has recorded 10 confirmed Lassa fever cases across four states in just one week. The NCDC's Lassa fever situation report for week 21 revealed that the number of confirmed cases increased from four in week 20 to 10 in the reporting week, indicating a significant spike.
"Cumulatively, Nigeria has recorded 897 confirmed cases and 162 deaths in 2024 with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.1%, which is higher than the CFR for the same period in 2023 (17.1%)," the NCDC stated, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The report further noted that 28 states have confirmed at least one case across 125 local government areas (LGA) in 2024. 65% of the confirmed cases are concentrated in four states: Ondo, Bauchi, Edo and Plateau. Ondo State alone accounts for 25% of the cases while Edo and Bauchi reported 22% and 18% respectively.
"People between the ages of 31 and 40 are predominantly affected by the disease, adding that no health worker was infected in the reporting week," the NCDC stated as it provided insights on the individuals who are most susceptible to the viral illness.
Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents or contaminated persons. Its symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, general body weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pains, chest pain and, in severe cases, unexplainable bleeding from ears, eyes, nose, mouth and other body openings.
"The National Lassa Fever Multi-partner, Multi-sectoral Technical Working Group (TWG) continues coordinating the response at all levels," the NCDC assured, indicating ongoing efforts to contain the outbreak and mitigate its impact.
As the number of Lassa fever cases continue to rise, heightened vigilance and collaborative efforts from health authorities and the public are crucial to prevent further spread of this potentially deadly viral illness.
Source: Premium Times News
Related: Lassa fever outbreak declared in Nigeria
Published: June 10, 2024
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