Lassa fever is a rodent-borne viral hemorrhagic fever. The Lassa virus is spread through contact with the urine or feces of infected rodents, such as rats. In most cases, people who are infected with Lassa fever do not show any symptoms, making it difficult to detect and control its spread.
However, when symptoms do occur, they can include fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, sore throat, cough, and fatigue. In severe cases, Lassa fever can lead to bleeding, organ failure, and death.
General tips to protect yourself from Lassa fever:
– Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
– Avoid contact with rodents.
– Cook food thoroughly.
– Avoid contact with people who are sick with Lassa fever.
According to recent reports, this fever has claimed the lives of 170 people in Nigeria so far in 2023, with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reporting that the number of confirmed cases has also increased, bordering 990+ as of July 7, 2023.
The outbreak of Lassa fever in Nigeria is a cause for concern. The number of cases is reportedly higher than previous years, and the virus is spreading to new areas. The NCDC is working to contain the outbreak, but it is urging the public to take precautions to protect themselves.
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