Lassa Fever: Health worker infected, patients on the run in Kaduna

Rat

Another health worker has been infected with the Lassa fever virus in Kaduna State and is currently being  isolated at the Infectious Disease Centre (IDC), Kakuri‎, Kaduna South Local Government Area of the state.

Chairman Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) Dr. Muhammed Sani Ibrahim who disclosed this said the whereabouts of   two patients suspected of having the virus, a male from Kachia Hospital and a female from Kawo General Hospital ‎who were referred to Barau Dikko Specialist Hospital cannot be ascertained.

The NMA Chairman while briefing newsmen on Monday  on the Lassa Fever outbreak ‎ which has so far claimed the lives of three persons called on the public to observe a good community hygiene including food hygiene and food protection practices.

As part of measure to address the situation, Dr Ibrahim said, the association is creating awareness on preventive measures, sensitizing the clinicians both in public and private set up to observe a. Very high index of suspicion and to observe universal precautions as they handle patients in all facilities. 

He assured that the medical association intend to sustain their sensitization and awareness creation efforts as a sure way to forestall spread and reduce death from infection.

“We are aware of the various efforts of the Federal and state governments in the creation and circulation of management protocols as well as supply of the antiviral drug( Ribavirin)‎ which if given early can reduce morbidity and mortality.

“We are also aware of the efforts of the state Epidemiology Unit and the State Rapid Response team who have ensured a timely response to all reports in the state.”

He also urged all to ensure that they avoid contact with rats as well as food or objects contaminated with rat secretion/excretions, “people must avoid drying food in the open and along the road side and also to cover all food to prevent contamination,” he added.

“Family members and health care workers are advised to always exercise caution and avoid contact with blood fluids while caring for sick persons, while suspected cases should be reported immediately because the treatment outcome is best if the treatment is commenced early.”

Meanwhile, he said the 10 primary contacts and 28 Secondary contacts of the Doctor and Nurse that died as a result of the lassa fever virus are currently placed on surveillance.