By Adesuwa Edokpayi
Edo State Government through the Ministry of Health has commenced a strategic sensitisation campaign against Lassa Fever in Esan West Local Government Area in Edo State.
The Commissioner for Health, Prof Obehi Akoria speaking during the campaign, applauded the work done so far in the advocacy for the eradication of the disease within the LGA. She tasked everyone to take the charge to their homes, schools, and churches towards its total eradication. The Commissioner further called on all persons in authority as well as parents to join the campaign to enlighten people within their communities because, according to her, it is only those alive that can play politics and also take care of their families.
Prof. Akoria was received by Hon. Friday Amiedamhen Idialu who briefed her on efforts by the health department to eradicate Lassa Fever from the Local Government. He also gave a break down on the council’s achievements since the commencement of the campaign.
Hon. Idialu also stated that Esan West LGA which was the flash point of Lassa Fever in Edo State now ranks among the few LGAs that have reduced the number of cases to the least. The Council Boss also assured the commissioner that his team will totally flush out Lassa fever in the coming months ahead. He however thanked the Health commissioner for prioritising the health of the people which she proved by taking the time to visit the Area.
The Primary Health Center Coordinator, Esan West Local Government Area, Dr. Ehis Emuah, noted that the campaign was aimed at creating awareness on ways to prevent the fever. He spoke on the possible means of contracting the fever and other related diseases which is through animals and pets. He further enlightened all on the symptoms and prevention of the Lassa fever.
Other Senior Health Officials in the council took turns to give the breakdown on the efforts made towards curbing the fever as well as achievements recorded so far within the LGA.
The Lassa Fever sensitization campaign was taken to churches, mosques, market places, motor Parks, communities, and other targeted locations with participants drawn from the host communities in Esan West LGA, all health workers from across the Local Government Council and all Special Advisers across the 10 wards in the Local Government Area.
