Vulnerable communities across Nigeria remain at high risk of contracting Lassa fever, a deadly viral hemorrhagic disease, as the dry season, a period of heightened transmission, approaches. With 1,059 confirmed cases reported across 28 states and 175 deaths in 2024, the outbreak has been particularly severe. Among those affected are 35 healthcare workers, underscoring the urgent need for robust infection control measures.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), state governments, and the federal government have ramped up efforts with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO’s technical assistance focuses on enhancing surveillance, improving health information management, coordinating outbreak responses, promoting risk communication, and engaging communities.
Dr. Paul M. Asema, State Epidemiologist for Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services, expressed gratitude for WHO’s role in bolstering outbreak management. “The state highly appreciates WHO’s contributions to safeguarding our people’s health during these critical outbreaks. However, holistic health planning remains essential for long-term improvements,” he said.
In Benue State’s Ortese Camp for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), WHO’s community engagement efforts have provided life-saving education on prevention measures. Mrs. Nyioun Adaga, a resident, shared her experience: “I was scared when I heard a neighbor in the camp had Lassa fever. But the medical team taught us preventive measures, and now I feel more confident in protecting my family.”
Lassa fever, caused by the Lassa virus, is endemic in Nigeria and tends to peak during the dry season. It spreads primarily through contact with rodent excreta or contaminated food and can be fatal if not treated early.
With the disease placing a heavy burden on already strained healthcare systems, coordinated responses and community awareness remain critical to curbing its spread and protecting lives.
SOURCE: RELIEFWEB NEWS
Submitted by Adiza Ibrahim
