Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria Claims 162 Lives This Year
Abuja, Nigeria – A growing outbreak of Lassa fever in Nigeria has resulted in 162 deaths as of August 31st, according to a recent statement from the country’s Disease control Center. The fever continues to spread, with cases reported in the capital city of Abuja and 21 other states.
Between August 25th and 31st, health officials confirmed 10 new cases, bringing the total number of Lassa fever cases reported since January 1st to 871. While the number of suspected and confirmed cases is currently lower than the same period last year, authorities are cautioning against complacency, citing ongoing risks.
Nigeria declared a national emergency in response to the Lassa virus on January 23, 2019, following 190 deaths across the country that year. The virus, which causes hemorrhagic fever, has been detected in several West African nations including Mali, Togo, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. It was first discovered in nigeria in Borno state in 1969.
Health officials are urging the public to avoid contact with mice and other rodents,as the disease is primarily transmitted through contact with rodent feces. Lassa fever can also spread between people, and can lead to severe bleeding and ultimately, death.
