The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, announced that two Lassa fever cases have been confirmed in the state, both of which resulted in fatalities. The infections were recorded in the Unguwan Gar and Kwalla communities of Qua’an Pan Local Government Area, and the patients were treated at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi State.
In response, the Plateau State Ministry of Health has activated an Incident Management System to coordinate the outbreak response. The state epidemiologist has been appointed Incident Manager to oversee surveillance, case management, and risk communication. Seventy‑nine individuals who had contact with the patients have been identified and are being monitored in accordance with national and international public health protocols.
Dr. Baamlong explained that Lassa fever is a viral disease primarily transmitted through contact with infected rats or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms range from headache, body weakness, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea to severe cases involving bleeding from the mouth or nose. He urged residents to maintain good hygiene, store food in covered containers, and report persistent fever to the nearest health facility.
The commissioner emphasized the need for public awareness and sensitisation, especially 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 food‑borne and water‑related diseases.
The Plateau State Government is 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 additional fatalities.
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