NCDC Issues Lassa Fever Advisory, Calls for Vigilance Across Nigeria

By Edward Samuel, Abuja

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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), has issued a Lassa fever public health advisory, urging Nigerians to be vigilant as Lassa fever cases continue to surge.

The Director General of the NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris gave the advise during a press briefing on the update on Lassa fever and meningitis outbreaks in Abuja, the nations capital.

Dr. Idris said through concerted efforts, the Federal Government aims to prevent, detect, and respond to this acute viral hemorrhagic fever, which has become a recurring health concern in the country.

“Lassa fever, primarily transmitted through the multimammate rat, has significant impacts on affected communities, including loss of income and heightened poverty risks as family members fall ill.

“According to recent reports, 1,035 cases and 174 deaths were recorded across 28 states as of October 13, 2024, reflecting a steady increase from previous years, with the 2023 outbreak affecting 28 states and 114 Local Government Areas (LGAs).”

With these figures, the advisory highlights Lassa fever’s devastating impact, stressing the need for individuals and healthcare workers to maintain strict hygiene and preventive measures.

“Common transmission routes include direct contact with urine, faeces, or blood from infected rats, and consuming contaminated food or water. Additionally, person-to-person transmission can occur through exposure to bodily fluids from infected individuals.”

Dr. Idris emphasized the importance of early diagnosis for effective treatment, as symptoms of Lassa fever such as fever, headache, nausea, and, in severe cases, bleeding from various body openings often mimic other illnesses like malaria.

“Early diagnosis significantly improves the likelihood of survival, making it essential for individuals to report symptoms promptly,” he advised.

To mitigate the spread, the NCDC’s National Lassa Fever Technical Working Group (TWG) advises the public to take proactive steps, such as maintaining clean environments, blocking entry points for rodents, and safely storing food.

They also discourage practices like bush burning, which can drive rats into human residences. Health workers are advised to follow strict infection control practices and report any suspected cases to ensure timely response.

“Community awareness remains vital to preventing further cases and deaths,” he added.

On Cerebrospinal Meningitis, (CSM), Nigeria recorded 4,915 suspected cases and 380 confirmed cases, resulting in 361 deaths across 24 states and the FCT in the 2023/2024 period.

Dr. Idris said this year, targeted vaccination campaigns in high-burden states such as Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, and Yobe aimed to protect people, particularly those aged 1-29, from the disease.

“Despite these efforts, annual outbreaks remain a challenge for health systems and communities.

“CSM, an epidemic-prone disease caused by inflammation of the brain and spinal cord coverings, poses a significant health threat across Nigeria, especially in the “Meningitis Belt” that spans 19 northern states, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and parts of southern Nigeria.”

According to Dr. Idris, CSM spreads primarily through close, prolonged contact with infected individuals via respiratory droplets.

“Symptoms often include fever, headache, neck stiffness, and light sensitivity, with young children displaying signs such as irritability and poor feeding. Overcrowded living conditions, poor ventilation, and exposure to indoor pollutants increase the risk of infection, making households, schools, and communal settings particularly vulnerable,” he added.

The DG NCDC urged Nigerians to stay vigilant against Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) as the dry season sets in, increasing the risk of infections.

To reduce the spread of CSM, the NCDC advises the public to ensure vaccinations are up to date, maintain proper respiratory hygiene, and avoid crowded environments.

“Cleanliness and good hand hygiene are also essential, and individuals are urged to seek medical help immediately if they experience symptoms associated with CSM, rather than self-medicating.

“The NCDC is providing support to health facilities and urging early diagnosis, which is crucial for reducing fatalities associated with the disease.”

For additional support, the NCDC has provided toll-free lines and contact information for the public to report cases and seek advice.

Contact Information: NCDC Toll-free Number: 6232 | SMS: 08099555577 | WhatsApp: 07087110839

Twitter: @NCDCGov | Facebook: @NCDCgov | Instagram: @NCDCgov.

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