As of last week, the total number of deaths was 161, meaning 15 people recently died of the disease. 28 new cases of the disease which is transmitted to humans via contact with food or household items contaminated with rodent urine or faeces have been confirmed.

Symptoms of Lassa fever include high fever, soar throat, nausea, fever and general weakness. The antiviral drug ribavirin seems to be an effective treatment for Lassa fever if given early in the course of clinical illness.

Prevention of Lassa fever relies on promoting good “community hygiene” to discourage rodents from entering homes.