Update: Lassa fever returns to Nigeria

Alleged cases of dreaded virus, lassa fever is at the increase again in Nigeria.

ONYXNEWSNG learnt that at least three persons died of lassa fever at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) in Kano. The three victims, including two medical doctors, died a few hours after operating a pregnant patient, suspected to be a major carrier at the teaching hospital.

The state commissioner for health Aminu Tsanyawa confirmed to newsmen that the recent deaths were due to a fresh outbreak of the virus.

According to him, the ministry currently has a complete number of 292 persons who had contact with the reported victims. This, it said, would help to quickly quarantine anyone who shows any symptoms of the disease, to avoid further spread.

Mr Tsanyawa, a medical doctor said, the first victim was a 28-year-old pregnant woman from Gwale local government area of the state who fell sick two weeks after the death of her mother.

She was referred to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital from a private hospital but also died on 1st of January.

“Following the report of the outbreak, and confirmation of samples, the state government swung into action, so as to expeditiously curtail the spread of the viral disease to this end, the state’s isolation centre at Year Gaya has been activated.

“Other measures taken include; activation of rapid response team, prepositioning of drugs and other consumables, contact tracing as well as daily coordination meeting at the state’s emergency operation centre amongst others,” the commissioner said.

Mr Tsanyawa urged the general public to disregard rumours, ensure proper hand hygiene, strengthen environmental sanitation and avoid contact with wild animals and rodents.

He also stated the other safety measures people should adhere to are to avoid poorly cooked meat, contact with suspected or confirmed cases or items soiled by them and urge the public to report any suspected case to the nearest health facility.

Mr Tsanyawa reiterated the state government’s readiness to partner with all persons, group and organisations in its determination towards providing quality healthcare service for the good people of the state.

He commended the state governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, for his efforts towards improving the health and well-being of the people of the state stressing that, all is under control.

This is coming hours after at least 16 people were reported dead in a fresh outbreak in Ondo State.

The governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, and The Nigeria Centre For Disease Control, met on Tuesday to review the situation which was revealed during the weekend, as medical personnel battle with the challenges.