Lassa fever is a known case in Nigeria especially as its first outbreak was in 1969, then from 2017-2022 at least over 900 people have died from this disease (according to Nigeria Centre for Disease Control NCDC). Now we just recently heard of a 25yrs old corper who died from this disease in ogun state, hence this awareness
What is Lassa Fever?
Lassa fever is a severe viral hemorrhagic (bleeding) illness caused by the rodent “MASTOMYS RAT”. This rat is commonly found in Sub saharan Africa in countries such as Nigeria, Liberia, Guinea, Togo, Benin. However, this disease is Most prevalent in Nigeria i.e Nigeria has more cases of people being affected with this virus.
Now How Is It Spread?
This rat carries the virus in its urine, feces, contaminated food, water and household items, therefore the virus can be contaminated through the following means
- Touching contaminated objects
- Eating food that has the virus
- Contact with the body fluid of an already infected person, when their symptoms begin
- Eating rodents
- Breathing in air that has infected urine or droppings
Incubation period is between 6-21 days
What are its signs and symptoms?
Lassa fever can be tricky to diagnose because its early symptoms resemble those of common illnesses like malaria or typhoid. However, it’s important to seek medical attention if you start to experience the following:
- Persistent fever
- Weakness and fatigue
- Headache and sore throat
- Muscle and joint pain
- Nausea and vomiting
In severe cases, the disease can lead to:
- Swelling of the face
- Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth, nose, or other parts of the body
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Organ failure, which can be fatal
Treatment
The good news is that Lassa fever can be treated, especially if diagnosed early. The antiviral drug Ribavirin is most effective when given in the early stages. Supportive care, such as treating symptoms as they appear can also help improve survival rates.
Prevention: How You Can Protect Yourself?
Since there are currently no vaccines for Lassa fever as we have with a lot of other viral diseases, prevention is key! so here’s what you can do in your own little way
✅ Store food in tightly sealed containers to keep rodents out.
✅ Keep your living space clean and free of rats.
✅ Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
✅ Avoid contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals.
✅ Healthcare workers should wear protective gear and follow strict infection control measures.
On a final Note
- Lassa fever is a very serious, deadly but preventable disease.
- People with Lassa fever are not contagious until after their symptoms begin.
- Lassa fever is not spread through casual contact, such as hugging, shaking hands, or sitting near someone.
- By staying informed and practicing good hygiene, you can help protect yourself and those around you.
- If you suspect you or someone you know has Lassa fever, seek medical help immediately
Let us stay healthy together…………….!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!