Lassa Fever: Bauchi State records 22 deaths

The Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Agency says it has so far recorded 22 deaths from Lassa fever cases across the state in 2023.

The Chairman of the agency, Rilwanu Mohammed disclosed this at a one-day advocacy engagement meeting held with traditional and religious leaders on the prevention of infectious diseases on Thursday in Bauchi.

NCDC Records 189 deaths from Lassa Fever in 2022

The meeting was organised by an NGO, Women Development Association for Self Sustenance, supported by WaterAid Nigeria.

According to the chairman who was represented by Haruna Wakil, Deputy Director, Disease Control and Immunisation of the agency, said the state has also recorded 678 suspected Lassa fever cases, 95 confirmed cases, and 22 deaths.

He added that the most affected local government areas are Alkaleri, Bauchi, Tafawa Balewa, Ganjuwa, Dass, Kirfi, toro and parts of Kanam in Plateau State.

However, he reiterated the need for proactive measures in the fight against infectious diseases, adding that traditional rulers and community leaders have significant roles to play in achieving the set objectives.

Going further, he emphasized on the need to always pause and reflect on the present situation of things in communities to achieve the set objectives of a healthy society.

Mohammed maintained that the agency is willing and ready to collaborate with relevant organisations and NGOs to promote and boost primary healthcare services in the communities.

Similarly, Haruna Suleiman, Head of Inspection, Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency (BASEPA), disclosed that the meeting was aimed at achieving a healthy society.

Suleiman further added that the importance of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene cannot be overemphasised “because it is the basis of living due to the fact that life itself revolves around cleanliness.”

He, however, decried that people had since abandoned the COVID-19 protocol of social distancing, washing hands and wearing of face masks, a development he described has increased the spread of infectious diseases.

Meanwhile, Magaji Barde of WODASS said that the meeting was aimed at sensitising traditional rulers and community leaders on efforts toward mobilising people to ensure a healthy and safe environment.

Wumi/ Punch