The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the Federal Ministry of Health has issued public health advice as the country faces a mounting challenge with Lassa fever.
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The Director General of the NCDC, Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, attributes the increased cases to improved surveillance, heightened community awareness, and environmental degradation due to climate change and human activities.
“Notably, annual outbreaks take a toll on healthcare workers, further straining the country’s already insufficient human resources for health.
“With the onset of the dry season, the NCDC’s Lassa Fever Technical Working Group (TWG) has rolled out strategic measures to bolster coordination and preparedness. These include biweekly national meetings, joint alerts with the cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) TWG, capacity building for healthcare workers, and a bi-weekly Lassa fever webinar series. Prepositioning medical supplies and updating the national incident action plan underscore the proactive approach in addressing this public health crisis,” he added.
The nation witnessed a worrisome surge in reported cases, with 28 states and 114 Local Government Areas (LGAs), affected in 2023.
As of December 3, 2023, the reported figures stand at 8542 suspected cases, 1170 confirmed cases, and 200 deaths, indicating a notable case fatality rate of 17.1%. The situation raises alarms, suggesting a potential record-breaking year for Lassa fever.
Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus, poses a significant threat, primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents.
The NCDC emphasizes early diagnosis and treatment, critical for patient survival.
“The public advisory outlines preventive measures, urging individuals to maintain hygiene, eliminate rat habitats, and seek medical attention promptly,” Dr. Adetifa said.
He said that as Nigeria confronts the escalating Lassa fever crisis, the NCDC’s comprehensive strategy aims to mitigate the impact, with a focus on collaboration, communication, and public awareness.
“The nation’s ability to contain this infectious disease hinges on swift and collective action from both authorities and the public.”
ADVICE TO HEALTHCARE WORKERS
• Healthcare workers are advised to always practice standard infection prevention and control practices, i.e., using gloves and other appropriate personal protective equipment while handling patients or providing care for an ill patient.
• Healthcare workers should maintain a high index of suspicion for Lassa fever, i.e., be vigilant and consider a diagnosis of Lassa fever when seeing patients presenting with febrile illness.
• Healthcare providers should report all suspected cases of Lassa fever to their local government Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer to ensure prompt diagnosis, referral, and early commencement of public health actions.
