The Cross River State government has confirmed an outbreak of Lassa Fever in Obubra Local Government Area (LGA) following the death of a 30-year-old male farmer from Unincha community. The victim succumbed to the disease on February 17 at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (FUTHA), Ebonyi State.
Details of the Outbreak:
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, revealed that the deceased sought medical attention at FUTHA on February 15 after experiencing symptoms for several days. He was diagnosed with Lassa Fever on February 16 but passed away the following day despite medical intervention.
The victim’s body was prepared at FUTHA and transported to Unincha community for a supervised burial conducted by the Obubra LGA Rapid Response Team.
Containment Measures:
In response to the outbreak, the Cross River State Lassa Fever Emergency Operation Center was activated on February 18. The state and LGA rapid response teams have been deployed to Unincha, working in collaboration with the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (SPHCDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to contain the spread.
Key containment measures include:
- Contact tracing and case monitoring.
- Community engagement and sensitization campaigns.
- Town hall meetings with community leaders.
- Decontamination of affected homes.
- Sample collection for testing.
- Referral of symptomatic persons to designated health facilities.
- Distribution of Lassa Fever and cholera medications, consumables, and emergency medical supplies in high-risk LGAs.
Public Reassurance and Advisory:
Dr. Ayuk reassured residents that the state government, under Governor Bassey Otu, is taking all necessary steps to control the outbreak and prevent further spread of infectious diseases. He urged the public to remain vigilant against Lassa Fever, cholera, mpox, and other epidemic-prone illnesses, especially as the early rains approach.
About Lassa Fever:
Lassa Fever is caused by the Lassa virus, which is transmitted through food or household items contaminated by Mastomys rats, commonly found in tropical regions. Symptoms include general weakness, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, uncontrollable bleeding.
Preventive Measures:
The Commissioner advised residents to:
- Maintain strict hygiene.
- Keep their surroundings clean.
- Store food in rat-proof containers.
- Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms are noticed.
He strongly cautioned against self-medication and urged individuals to report suspected cases promptly.
The Cross River State Ministry of Health remains on high alert and continues to monitor the situation closely to prevent further spread.
