In its recent report, the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) revealed that in 2023, Lassa Fever had made its presence known in 28 states, affecting 121 Local Government Areas. Shockingly, the nation reported a staggering 1,227 confirmed cases of the disease, resulting in the tragic loss of 219 lives. These figures, highlighting the alarming spread and impact of Lassa Fever, were laid out by the NCDC. The NCDC website recently unveiled its latest report, revealing a significant surge in both confirmed cases and fatalities in 2023. As opposed to the 1,055 cases and 189 deaths reported during the same timeframe in 2022, this year’s figures have experienced an alarming rise.
Over the course of 2023, from the first week to the fifty-first week, a total of 216 fatalities were recorded, according to the report. Notably, the case fatality rate (CFR) stood at 17.5 percent, which is slightly lower compared to the CFR of 17.9 percent during the corresponding period in 2022. Week 51, specifically from 18 to 24 December, witnessed a rise in Lassa fever cases, as indicated by the report. The number of newly confirmed cases escalated from 10 the week prior to a total of 26 cases.
Ondo state recorded 35% of the total number of cases.
Furthermore, in its findings, the report highlighted a rise in suspected cases in 2023, reaching 8,978 when compared to the previous year’s 8,130. Furthermore, it mentioned that in the 51st week, two health professionals were among those affected. Throughout that year, the NCDC acknowledged that 28 states reported at least one confirmed case, spanning over 121 Local Government Areas. Notably, a significant proportion of the confirmed Lassa fever cases, precisely 77 percent, emanated from the states of Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi.
Ondo state contributed to 35% of the total, whereas Edo and Bauchi reported 28% and 14%, respectively. The report highlights that individuals aged between 21 and 30 years were the most significantly impacted group, encompassing cases ranging from as young as one year to as old as 93 years. Moreover, it reveals that the median age of confirmed cases stood at 32 years. In light of this ongoing situation, the NCDC has taken necessary action by activating multi-sectoral Public Health Emergency Operation Centers (PHEOC) at both the national level and within the affected states.
Case submission delay and inadequate sanitation increases mortality rate.
Combating Lassa Fever cases In Nigeria presents significant challenges, as the NCDC emphasises. These challenges are primarily tied to the delayed submission of cases, leading to a higher mortality rate. The high cost of treating and managing Lassa fever contributes to the poor health-seeking behaviour of certain individuals. Moreover, communities burdened by this disease also exhibit inadequate environmental sanitation conditions and lack awareness about its risks. These high-burden communities face additional challenges, including poor environmental sanitation conditions and limited awareness.
Lassa fever, a swiftly spreading viral disease, plunges individuals into a state of excessive bleeding. The infection is transmitted when humans come into contact with tainted rodents, contaminated food, or household items contaminated by infected individuals. Those affected by this illness may experience a range of symptoms such as fever, headache, throat discomfort, overall bodily weakness, coughing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle ache, and chest pain. In severe cases, the bleeding becomes inexplicable as it gushes from openings like the ears, eyes, nose, mouth, and other parts of the body.
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According to Africa CDC, the effective use of Ribavirin, an antiviral medication, has yielded positive results in treating individuals with Lassa fever. Furthermore, patients should be provided with prompt support through rehydration and the treatment of symptoms. In order to prevent the primary transmission of the Lassa virus from its host to humans, it is advised to stay away from Mastomys rodents, store food in containers that are impenetrable to rodents, and maintain cleanliness within homes as deterrents to rodent infiltration. To prevent the spread of Lassa fever among patients, it is crucial to implement preventive measures that minimise person-to-person transmission or infection through healthcare settings. These precautions aim to reduce contact with bodily fluids or secretions from infected individuals.
Related Link
NCDC: Website
