Lassa fever outbreak in Plateau State kills two

Plateau State Confirms Two Lassa Fever Cases with Fatalities The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, has announced the confirmation of two Lassa fever cases in the state, resulting in two fatalities. The cases were recorded in Unguwan Gar and Kwalla communities in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area. According to Baamlong, the patients were being treated at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi State. The commissioner stated that 69 individuals who had contact with the patients have been identified and are being monitored in line with national and international public health protocols. The Plateau State Ministry of Health has activated an Incident Management System to ensure a coordinated response to the outbreak. The state epidemiologist has been appointed as the Incident Manager to oversee surveillance, case management, and risk communication. Baamlong explained that Lassa fever is a viral disease primarily transmitted through contact with infected rats or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include headache, body weakness, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding from the mouth or nose in severe cases. He urged residents to maintain good hygiene, store food in covered containers, and report persistent fever to the nearest health facility. The commissioner also emphasized the importance of public awareness and sensitization, particularly in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area and neighboring communities. He warned against unhygienic practices, such as washing meat with contaminated sewage water, which can lead to foodborne and water-related diseases. The Plateau State Government has committed to protecting the health and well-being of its residents and is working to prevent further spread of the disease. The public is advised to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of Lassa fever to the authorities. With the Incident Management System in place, the state is taking proactive measures to contain the outbreak and prevent further fatalities.