Leadnaija
This is as the agency has intenÂsified its response to the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak as cases and fatalities continue to rise sharply across the country.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of the NCDC, expressed concern over the spike in cases, especially in the last four weeks, emphasising the urgent need for targeted interventions in high-burden states such as Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Benue, and Ebonyi……CLICK TO READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶▶
“The case fatality rate remains alarmingly high at over 13%, and we have observed a rise in suspected cases compared to the same period in 2023, possibly due to enhanced surveillance,” he said.
The NCDC has implemented a range of measures to curb the outbreak and mitigate its impact on communities.
According to Dr. Idris, “These include activation of the EmerÂgency Operations Centre (EOC): Ensuring seamless coordination of control and management efforts using a One Health apÂproach.
“Distribution of Medical Supplies: Provision of critical infection prevention and control materials, laboratory tools, and diagnostic kits to affected states.
“Expansion of Testing FacilÂities: Increasing Lassa fever testÂing laboratories from nine to 13, with plans for further upgrades.
“Risk Assessment and SurÂveillance: Conducting dynamic risk assessments to tailor inÂterventions to the most affected areas.
“Community Engagement: Broadcasting prevention mesÂsages on local media and conÂducting rodent control exercises in hotspot states like Edo, Ondo, and Ebonyi.”
Dr. Idris highlighted the imÂportance of early diagnosis and treatment, noting, “Early preÂsentation greatly increases surÂvival rates. We urge individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, and vomiting to visit health facilities immediately.”
Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness, is transmitÂted through contact with infected rodents or contaminated materiÂals. Person-to-person transmisÂsion can also occur through conÂtact with body fluids of infected individuals.
To reduce the risk of infecÂtion, the NCDC has advised the public to: maintain clean enviÂronments and block entry points for rodents; store food in sealed containers and avoid open drying of foodstuff; eliminate rodents usÂing traps and safe methods; and practice proper hand hygiene and avoid self-medication.
Healthcare workers have been urged to adhere strictly to infecÂtion prevention protocols and promptly report suspected cases to local authorities.
The NCDC is working closely with state governments, internaÂtional partners, and local commuÂnities to address the outbreak.
Dr. Idris stressed, “This is a critical moment for all stakeholdÂers to come together to combat this public health threat. By imÂplementing preventive measures and strengthening surveillance, we can reduce cases and save lives.
“As Nigeria enters the peak transmission season, the NCDC remains committed to safeguardÂing public health through proacÂtive measures and collaborative efforts. Individuals experiencing symptoms are encouraged to call 6232, the NCDC hotline, for immeÂdiate assistance.”...CLICK TO READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶▶
