The Ebonyi State Ministry of Health revealed on Wednesday that Lassa fever has resulted in 14 deaths in the state, News About Nigeria reports.
Dr. Hyacinth Ebenyi, the Director of Public Health at the ministry, shared this information during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki.
As of February 20, there were 29 confirmed cases of Lassa fever in the state, with 14 reported deaths.
Dr. Ebenyi expressed concern over the recent surge in suspected cases, noting that 110 people were under suspicion of contracting the disease.
While acknowledging the endemic nature of Lassa fever in the state, Dr. Ebenyi urged citizens not to panic.
“Yes, there has been an increase in the cases of Lassa fever. The disease is endemic in the state. It did not just start; it has been here, most times, during the dry season.
“So far, we have had suspected cases of 110, and out of this figure, we recorded 29 confirmed cases. Out of 29 cases, as of Tuesday, we lost 14 persons,” the director said.
He assured the public that the state government is actively working to contain the spread of the disease.
The director stressed the importance of preventive measures, urging residents to avoid consuming rats and coming into contact with their fluids.
Lassa fever is known to be transmitted through the urine and faeces of infected rats.
Dr. Ebenyi highlighted the symptoms of the disease, including a high fever, general body weakness, and headaches.
He warned that if left untreated, the disease could progress rapidly, leading to bleeding from body openings and affecting vital organs, ultimately resulting in death.
In light of the situation, residents were strongly advised to seek immediate medical attention if they experienced symptoms associated with Lassa fever.
