Lassa fever outbreak,an acute viral infection caused by the Lassa virus from rats 397 cases nationwide

LAGOS — Following recent cases of Lassa fever outbreak in some parts of the country, Lagos State Government, yesterday, enjoined Lagosians to ensure proper and adequate personal and environmental hygiene at all times. The state government, has, meanwhile, designated telephone numbers to be called in the case of suspected Lassa fever case in any part of the state. Members of the public were also expected to contact the Directorate of Disease Control in the state Ministry of Health on noticing a suspected case of the epidemic.
Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris, who gave the advice as part of the precautionary measures to prevent the outbreak of the disease in the state, urged Lagosians to avoid contact with rats.
He said: “Lassa fever is an acute viral infection caused by the Lassa virus that is associated with persistent high fever.”
Idris stressed the need for people to cover their food and water properly, cook all their food thoroughly, as well as block all rat hideouts and holes through which rats can enter their homes.
He emphasized the importance of storing grains and other dried food items in containers with covers, properly dispose of refuse, maintain adequate sanitation, as well as keeping pets like cats in the house.
He said: “Lassa fever is an acute viral infection caused by the Lassa virus and associated with persistent high fever. It is spread by exposure to and eating of foods contaminated with rat dropping or urine. It is also spread by direct contact with the blood, urine, faces or other bodily secretions of person with Lassa fever.”