Doctors confirm Lassa fever in Kogi

Doctors in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital have confirmed a case of lassa fever in the state as a patient was said to have been found positive of the disease.

The patient, who is from Angwan Kura in the town was said to have visited Federal Medical Center (FMC) Lokoja for medical check up.

The patient, according to sources, reported at the Accident and Emergency Unit of the hospital with signs and symptoms suggestive of haemorrhagic fever.

It was gathered that  epidemiologists immediately sent the patient’s blood sample to the laboratory of the Federal Specialist Hospital Irrua, Edo State for analysis, following which it was discovered to be positive for lassa fever.

The patient was eventualy transfered to Federal Specialist Hospital Irrua, Edo State for optimal care.

The state commissioner for health, Dr Saka Audu, while confirming the development, said State Rapid Response Team was summoned and provisions were made for source/contact tracing and prophylactic treatment for medical personnel who had contact with the patient before transfer.

He sais, “All these have been concluded as all those who have had contact with the patient  are currently being closely monitored.

“It is important to note that it was discovered that the patient had travelled to Ilorin, Kwara State where he had stayed for two weeks. He only developed symptoms of haemorrhagic fever two days after his return. We are therefore uncertain whether he contracted the virus there or here in Lokoja.”

He however, said efforts were being made to prevent further spread of the disease with government embarking on aggressive public enlightenment.