KEY POINTS

• Lassa fever spreads via rodents and person-to-person contact.
• NCDC highlights early symptoms and stresses timely medical care.
• Preventive measures include sanitation, food safety, and hand hygiene.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has sounded the alarm on rising Lassa fever cases, describing it as a significant public health threat.

Speaking in Abuja on Monday, Dr. Jide Idris, NCDC’s Director General, warned Nigerians to adopt preventive measures during the peak transmission season.

Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic disease caused by the Lassa virus, is transmitted through contact with the urine, feces, or bodily fluids of infected rodents, particularly the multimammate rat. It can also spread via person-to-person contact with infected bodily fluids.

“Early detection is critical,” Idris said. “The disease often presents symptoms like malaria, including fever, headache, weakness, and nausea. Severe cases may involve bleeding, but timely diagnosis and treatment significantly improve survival rates.”

High-Risk groups and warning signs

The NCDC identified individuals living in rodent-infested areas, healthcare workers without protective equipment, and laboratory staff as being at high risk of contracting the disease.

The agency also noted that consuming contaminated food or failing to practice proper hygiene increases vulnerability.

Dr. Idris emphasized that early symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and diarrhea should prompt immediate medical attention. He urged Nigerians to avoid self-medication and seek professional care for better outcomes.

Preventive measures to curb spread

To combat the spread of Lassa fever, the NCDC outlined essential preventive measures:

Keep homes clean and eliminate rodent breeding grounds, seal holes and cracks to prevent rodents from entering, store food in tightly sealed containers and avoid open drying and practice regular hand hygiene and avoid bush burning or deforestation.

Healthcare workers were also advised to adhere strictly to infection prevention protocols and report suspected cases promptly to facilitate public health responses.

NCDC reiterates commitment to public health

The NCDC assured Nigerians of its commitment to minimizing the impact of Lassa fever through coordinated efforts, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with stakeholders.

According to Vanguard, the agency encouraged the public to report cases via its toll-free line (6232) or the State Ministry of Health.

“Together, we can reduce the burden of Lassa fever and protect our communities,” Idris said.

As cases rise during the peak season, the NCDC’s advisory underscores the importance of vigilance, sanitation, and timely medical care to combat this endemic threat.