Ogun State has declared an outbreak of Lassa fever, following the death of a 25-year-old female National Youth Service Corps member who contracted the disease in Ondo State. The victim was admitted to a secondary health facility in Ijebu North Local Government, where she unfortunately passed away.
Nigeria has been experiencing a resurgence of Lassa fever cases since the beginning of the year. According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), there have been reported cases of Lassa fever in several states, including Ogun, Lagos, and Ebonyi.
Symptoms of Lassa Fever
The symptoms of Lassa fever include: High-grade fever, Headache, General body weakness, Sore throat, Muscle pain, Cough, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Chest pain,Unexplained bleeding from the ears, eyes, nose, mouth, and other body openings.
To prevent contracting Lassa fever, the Ogun State Government advises:
- Keeping your environment clean: Regularly clean and disinfect your home, especially areas where food is prepared and stored.
- Storing food properly: Keep food items in tightly sealed containers and avoid leaving them out in the open.
- Avoiding contact with rodents: If you must handle rodents, wear protective gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
- Practicing good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after coming into contact with someone who may be infected.
- Avoiding bush burning: Bush burning can drive rodents out of their natural habitats and into human residences, increasing the risk of Lassa fever transmission.
By taking these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting Lassa fever. Stay safe, and stay informed!
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