Lassa Fever: Rivers Records Fatality

The Rivers State Ministry of Health, has confirmed six cases of Lassa Fever in the State.

Commissioner for Health, Tamunoiyoriari Sampson Parker has therefore declared that an epidemic of Lassa Fever has occurred in the State following the death of a female nurse in Port Harcourt.

According to him, “One case of Lassa Fever is an epidemic and that is why we must alert the people so that they can disseminate and communicate it to other persons to be aware and take preventive measures against the disease.

On the causes of the disease, Parker said, the virus is transmitted by species of rat through contact with their excrements and cuts and sores and by inhalation of tiny particles of the excrements.

He said the disease is dangerous, contagious and difficult to diagnose and advised that anyone experiencing fever for at least three days should see a qualified medical doctor or visit the nearest Primary Health Centre for proper diagnosis.

He urged the people of the state to maintain proper waste disposal, good personal hygiene and clean environment to reduce contact with rats and their excrements.

He said a rapid response team has been put in place to tackle reported cases of the disease and added that a medical equipment to detect cases of the disease would soon be received in the State.

Tonye Nria-Dappa