By Praise Chinecherem
The Anambra State Government has confirmed one death and fifteen suspected cases of Lassa Fever in the state since January.
Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, who disclosed this to reporters on Thursday, said the state’s emergency response team was already responding to the recorded cases while relevant surveillance measures were in place to curtail disease spread.
He further said government had constituted contact tracing teams to follow up on the cases.
He said, “So far in Anambra state, we have recorded 15 suspected cases of Lassa fever and one death.
“The ministry is following the National guidelines in managing the cases of Lassa fever in the state. And we have started contact tracing to manage the situation and prevent further spread.”
Underscoring the importance clean environment as key to reducing risk of Lassa fever infection, Obidike also advised residents to visit the nearest health facility if they notice any signs and symptoms associated with Lassa fever which includes fever, weakness, headaches, vomiting and muscle pains.
“Block all holes in your house to prevent rats from entering. Cover your dustbins and dispose of refuse properly.
“Practice good personal and hand hygiene by frequently washing hands with soap under running water, ” he said.
On the outbreak of Diphtheria, the Commissioner said that the state had not recorded any case, adding that the ministry is on high alert and taking proactive measures to guard against the spread of the disease in the state
Recall that NCDC has also confirmed 123 cases of Diphtheria disease and 38 deaths in four states as at January 22, 2023.
