A Lassa fever case has been confirmed at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) in Kano, Nigeria.
The case was recorded on April 5 in Garun Mallam Local Government Area.
Two suspected cases were initially reported, but only one tested positive for Lassa Fever.
The hospital has initiated emergency protocols, including contact tracing, precautionary screening, and isolation measures to contain the spread of the disease.
The confirmed patient arrived at the hospital on foot and was immediately tested. Some staff members reported mild symptoms similar to malaria, prompting further testing.
The Kano State Ministry of Health has deployed a contact tracing team to the affected community, working closely with the hospital to contain any possible spread of the disease.
The hospital has also notified the state health authorities, and they are collaborating to address the situation.
Current Situation and Public Assurance
The situation is currently under control, with none of the individuals under observation requiring hospitalization.
The hospital spokesperson, Salisu Inuwa, has assured the public that there’s no cause for alarm, urging citizens to remain calm and vigilant. Unfortunately, a total of four cases have been confirmed in Kano State, with three reported deaths.
Origin of the Outbreak
The index case in Kano State was a woman who had traveled to Bauchi State to care for her ill mother, who later died. Upon returning to Kano, she fell ill and was taken to Standard Hospital, where she went into labor. This incident triggered the current outbreak response efforts in the state.
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