Since the beginning of this year, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported a total of 3,914 suspected cases of Lassa fever nationwide.
Among these cases, 682 have been confirmed, resulting in 128 deaths. These occurrences span across 27 states and 117 local government areas.
The alarming pace of the disease’s spread has raised concerns among government authorities, healthcare professionals, and the general populace.
Lafiya360 highlights some important facts to note about Lassa Fever;
– Lassa fever was initially identified in Nigeria in 1969, following the deaths of two missionary nurses. It derives its name from the village of Lassa in Borno State, where it was first documented.
– The disease is prevalent in several West African countries, with an estimated 100,000 to 300,000 cases annually, resulting in approximately 5,000 deaths.
– Lassa fever is more prevalent during the dry season compared to the rainy season.
– The virus responsible for Lassa fever is transmitted by a species of rodents known as the Natal multimammate rat, the common African rat, or the African soft-furred rat.
– The primary mode of transmission is through the ingestion or inhalation of rat urine or faeces. It can also spread through cuts and open wounds.
– Symptoms typically manifest within 1-3 weeks of infection.
– Person-to-person transmission is feasible through blood, bodily fluids, or excretions, although not through casual contact. Poorly-equipped hospitals can facilitate transmission among patients and staff.
– Early stages of Lassa fever are often misdiagnosed as common ailments like cold, typhoid, or malaria, delaying appropriate treatment.
– The incubation period ranges from six to 21 days, followed by acute illness.
– Early symptoms include fever, headache, weakness, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Some patients may experience multi-organ involvement.
– Fatalities typically occur 10 to 14 days after symptom onset, with non-specific symptoms such as facial swelling, muscle fatigue, conjunctivitis, and mucosal bleeding.
– Preventive measures involve minimizing contact with rats, particularly in outbreak-prone areas. This includes storing food in rat-proof containers and maintaining cleanliness to deter rat infestation.