The Delta State Government has officially confirmed the presence of four cases of Lassa fever within the state. The State’s Commissioner of Health, Joseph Onojaeme, addressed the media in Asaba on Friday, March 22, revealing that the affected areas include Okpe, Oshimili North, Oshimili South, and Ndokwa East.
To combat the outbreak, Emergency Operation Centers (EOCs) have been established throughout the state to closely monitor the situation and ensure that residents are well-informed. Onojaeme emphasized the importance of taking swift action to prevent the spread of the disease, noting that the fatality rate currently stands at 50%, significantly higher than the typical 1-15% rate for Lassa fever.
The government is actively engaged in advocacy efforts, particularly targeting healthcare workers, and is working to raise awareness among the general population. Collaboration with the Irrua Specialist Hospital in Edo State has enabled expedited testing, with results now available in less than 24 hours, as opposed to the previous 72-hour timeframe.
Dr. Mildred Igumbor, the State Epidemiologist, stressed the urgency of the situation, highlighting the need for a collective effort to eradicate the disease. She explained that Lassa fever is transmitted through contact with rat urine on food items, urging residents to take precautions to prevent contamination.
The Isolation Center at the Federal Medical Center in Asaba is equipped to handle confirmed cases, with the option for referrals to the Irrua Specialist Hospital if necessary. Vigilance and proactive measures are crucial in containing the outbreak and safeguarding the health of the community.
