Lassa Fever: Kaduna govt confirms death of four people

The Kaduna state government has confirmed the deaths of four people as a result of the outbreak of a deadly disease known as viral hemorrhagic fever (Lassa fever).

This was contained in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Muhammad Lawal Shehu, on Thursday.

The statement noted, “The attention of the Kaduna State Government has been drawn to a suspected outbreak of viral hemorrhagic fever, popularly known as “Lassa fever,” at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in the capital city of Kaduna.

“Governor Uba Sani, on learning of this potentially dangerous outbreak, directed the Kaduna State Ministry of Health on February 20, 2024, to immediately investigate and ascertain the situation at the health facility.

Consequently, a surveillance team was promptly mobilised to assess the situation, and containment measures were initiated alongside hospital management.

“Lassa fever generally infects victims with the following symptoms: fever, general body weakness, and, after a few days, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, cough, and abdominal pain.

Currently, four deaths have been recorded, all within the hospital premises, while three other patients with similar symptoms are being managed.

“The Kaduna State Ministry of Health and management of 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital are working assiduously to contain the situation, as all those who came into contact with those infected have been identified and are closely monitored while receiving urgent medical treatment.

Furthermore, samples have been carefully collected from contacts and sent for confirmation to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control laboratory, where they are closely being followed up.

Additionally, all infection prevention and control (IPC) measures have been instituted at the facility while it remains closed to the public until full containment has been achieved.

“Members of the public are hereby advised to maintain proper food and environmental hygiene as they remain hyper-vigilant to immediately report any suspected cases of Lassa fever to the nearest health facility.

“Kaduna State Ministry of Health has further been directed to enhance surveillance across the state in collaboration with local government health departments.