LASSA FEVER OUTBREAK

The minister of Health, Prof Isaac Adewole, has confirmed the death of a health practitioner as a result of Lassa Fever in Ogun State. Adewole has also mandated the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to release a detailed brief as soon as it concludes its investigations. However, the minister called on members of the public to be calm, and seek care in health care facilities. According to a statement by the Ministry of Health’s Director, Media and Public Relations,  Mrs Boade Akinola, the minister said that anybody with symptoms which include fever, headaches, and vomiting, should report immediately at the nearest medical facility. Adewole said, “Healthcare professionals are reminded to test before treating for suspected malaria, and if the test is negative for malaria, to maintain a high index of suspicion for Lassa Fever. Lassa Fever is treatable when detected early. “Medical personnel are hereby directed to report case of suspected Lassa Fever immediately to the state Epidemiologist, who has been provided with the commodities, by NCDC to respond to cases”. The minister also urged the health workers to take the necessary precaution in treating patients. Adewole also condoled with the Nigerian Association of Nurses and Midwives on the death of their member.***prbxselfnetwork***