Lassa Fever Outbreak Claims 118 Lives in Nigeria in First Quarter of 2023
Lassa fever has resulted in 118 deaths in Nigeria during the first three months of this year, with 645 confirmed cases reported. The disease primarily affects rural communities due to poor sanitation practices. Healthcare facilities are facing staffing shortages, and many patients are resorting to self-medication instead of seeking professional care.
Lassa fever has claimed 118 lives in Nigeria within the first quarter of this year, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC). Originally identified in 1969 in Borno state, the virus is transmitted through contact with rodent excrement and has historically resulted in thousands of deaths, particularly in rural regions where food hygiene practices are poor.
Despite ongoing efforts to combat the spread of Lassa fever, improvements in sanitation and hygiene among rural communities remain minimal, exacerbating the risk of rodent infestations in homes and food supplies. Between January and March, 645 confirmed cases were reported along with an 18.3% fatality rate, as detailed by NCDC’s director general, Jide Idris.
Recent epidemiological trends indicate that Nigeria typically records approximately 100 deaths from Lassa fever each quarter. Alarmingly, over 20 healthcare workers are among the infected in five of the 33 states impacted by the outbreak. Idris noted that many treatment facilities face staffing shortages, and patients often prefer self-medication over seeking professional healthcare.
The ongoing Lassa fever outbreak in Nigeria highlights critical issues related to public health, sanitation, and healthcare access. With high fatality rates and increasing infections among healthcare workers, it underscores the urgent need for improved hygiene practices in rural areas and heightened awareness regarding treatment options for those affected.
Original Source: www.myjoyonline.com
