From: Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
Two persons have died of Lassa Fever in Benue State, a week after 7 persons were reportedly infected by the disease.
The State Commissioner for Health Dr Paul Ogwuche disclosed this on Thursday in Makurdi, stating that in the last 2 weeks there has been upsurge in incidences of Lassa Fever in the State.
He said two (2) more cases have been recorded in their dashboard, bringing the figure to 9, intimating that 5 returned positive with two (2) mortality.
He added that the cases are predominantly in Buruku and Makurdi local government areas, disclosing that two(2) health workers were infected.
“As we speak now, there are 9 suspected cases of Lassa Fever in our dashboard. About 5 are positive and 2 of them, mortality. Amongst the 5, two (2) came out positive.
“There are cases that involved 2 health workers. The cases involved are in Buruku and Makurdi. 2 cases came from Buruku diagnosed in Makurdi. As a ministry, we have responded appropriately. We have our incident rapid response team. We have activated our public emergency health center and the neccessary mechanisms.
“We have stepped up our health campaign, enlightening people on how they can avoid this disease. You have to look at your hygiene and sanitation around you. Avoid rodents(rats) which are the primary carriers. Cases are high now especially during the dry season when grasses are burnt, these rodents are looking for hiding places and they go into homes and if you leave your food especially the raw ones open, they will defecate into it. We also, stepped up our surveillance because one of the best way to handle is early diagnoses and treatment.”
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