…records 23 cases so far
The Edo State Government has raised alarm over the rising cases of Lassa fever in the state, noting that the state has recorded 18 new cases, bringing the total number of persons currently on admission in the state to 23.
The State’s Commissioner for Health, Prof. Obehi Akoria, who disclosed this at a briefing, said the infected persons, including 17 adults and 6 children, are currently receiving care at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH).
According to Akoria, “Edo State, over the past one week has recorded 18 new cases of Lassa fever; bringing the cases of Lassa fever patients currently on admission in the state to 23. The 23 patients, including 17 adults and six children, are currently receiving care at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital.”
Assuring residents in the State of Government’s commitment to their health and general well-being, the Commissioner noted that the State Government has stepped up surveillance, sensitization and other measures, to stop the spread of the disease and protect residents across all Edo communities.
“We have stepped up communication with messages being developed and disseminated to sensitise people in their local languages. The Emergency Operation Centre for Lassa fever has been activated in Edo State on January 5, and they have had three meetings. The various pillars of the Emergency Operation Centre have been activated.
“The Infection, Prevention and Control pillar is currently working on contacting the Disease Notification and Surveillance Officers in the various councils, to beef up infection control”, Akoria stated.
While lamenting the unprecedented rise in the number of infections, the Health Commissioner called for the support and collaboration of every Edo resident to control and eliminate Lassa fever in the State.
Akoria said: “We will also be meeting with council stakeholders today in Edo Central. We will be meeting with the Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA) of the seven affected LGAs, as well as the market women, Enogies, and the healthcare practitioners in the LGAs, among other stakeholders.
“We want people to be aware that cases of Lassa fever are on the rise. While the government is implementing a number of measures to prevent the spread of the disease in the state, we urge everyone to support the government’s efforts in curbing the spread of Lassa Fever by complying with guidelines to stay healthy and safe.
“Wash your hands frequently with soap and water; avoid contact with rat urine or feaces, avoid consuming contaminated food or water and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms of Lassa fever, such as fever, headache, muscle pain, and weakness”.
According to Akoria, the councils in the state most hit by the disease include; Esan West, Etsako West, Esan North-East, Esan Central, Etsako Central, Esan South-East and Etsako East.
