The Ebonyi State Ministry of Health disclosed that in 2023, the state recorded 53 cases of Lassa Fever, resulting in the loss of 36 lives.
This information was provided by Orogwu Sampson, the Disease Surveillance Notification Officer at the state Ministry of Health, via a statement issued by Public Relations Officer Miss Lucy Anyim on Saturday in Abakiliki.
The statement further revealed that from January 4 to February 16, 2024, there have been 25 new infections, including 2 healthcare workers, with 10 fatalities. Orogwu emphasized that Lassa Fever affects individuals of all ages, with 16 male and 9 female patients among the confirmed cases. The deceased included a pregnant woman, two children, and both men and women.
Orogwu identified the affected Local Government Areas (LGAs) as Onicha, Ikwo, Ezza North, Ebonyi, Izzi, Ohaukwu, Abakaliki (including Hausa quarters and Nkaliki residential areas), with the highest number of cases reported. He clarified that other LGAs might not have reported cases yet, rather than being free of the disease entirely.
He stressed that treatment is provided free of charge and urged people to seek early detection and treatment to prevent further fatalities. State Epidemiologist Dr. Ogbonna Nwambeke highlighted the collaborative efforts between the State Government and partners such as WHO, Breakthrough Action Nigeria, and UNICEF to combat the disease, calling for increased logistical support for surveillance and community engagement.
Nwambeke advised against bush burning, consumption of rats, and touching surfaces touched by infected individuals, emphasizing the importance of personal and environmental hygiene. He expressed gratitude to the State Government for supplying a large volume of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for health workers at the National Obstetrics Fistula Centre in Abakiliki, ensuring their safety in saving lives.
