Enugu State Takes Precautions Following Lassa Fever Outbreak in Surrounding Regions

The Enugu State Government has urged both healthcare providers and citizens to be proactive in preventing the spread of Lassa fever in the state.

George Ugwu, the state's Commissioner for Health, made this announcement while updating the media about Enugu's readiness to tackle potential cases of Lassa fever.

Ugwu reported that Benue State, which borders Enugu, has recently identified 250 suspected cases, with 45 confirmed cases and 10 fatalities among healthcare workers. He further noted that over six confirmed cases were documented in the neighboring state of Ebonyi.

Despite no confirmed cases reported in Enugu thus far, the commissioner indicated heightened preparedness measures due to the state's close proximity to Benue and Ebonyi, activating a high alert phase and collaborating with partners.

In the guidelines disseminated to healthcare facilities and personnel, Ugwu emphasized the importance of patient triage at designated points within health facilities.

Furthermore, it was stated that individuals exhibiting symptoms of infectious diseases should be directed to suitable facilities equipped for proper management.

"Tertiary healthcare facilities are required to allocate holding areas for suspected cases and to notify state authorities promptly through designated communication channels," he instructed.

Ugwu also highlighted the necessity of adhering to Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) protocols, emphasizing the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when engaging with suspected cases.

He urged health workers to maintain a heightened awareness for persistent fevers that do not respond to malaria treatments and to ensure correct waste disposal and decontamination processes are followed.

The Commissioner recommended that the general public work towards eliminating rodents in their homes, keeping living areas tidy, sealing entry points, and clearing overgrown vegetation around residences.

Additionally, he advised storing grains and food items in tightly sealed containers and avoiding drying food outdoors where rat contamination is possible.

"It's crucial to wash hands regularly with soap and clean water, and to use hand sanitizers when water is scarce, while also ensuring that all fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed before being eaten," he added.

Ugwu cautioned against handling or consuming rats and other rodents, as well as avoiding contact with the bodily fluids of any individuals exhibiting illness.

Symptomatic individuals, including those with persistent non-malaria responding fevers, headaches, weakness, vomiting, abdominal pain, or bleeding from various orifices, should seek immediate medical attention, as early treatment significantly improves chances of recovery.

He encouraged journalists to disseminate only verified information from health authorities to aid in accurately spreading preventative advice.

The state government has intensified its surveillance operations across all local government areas, particularly in hotspots, establishing Rapid Response Teams to manage the situation.

Ugwu confirmed that essential supplies such as PPE, medications, and body bags for safe burials have been strategically positioned and that risk communication resources are being made available in local dialects.

"If you observe any unusual symptoms in someone, please alert public health officials at once," he added. Nigeria has recorded 1,469 suspected Lassa fever cases, including 318 confirmed infections and over 70 deaths.

Related reports indicate that Lassa fever, transmitted through the contact with infected rodent fluids, has surfaced in multiple Nigerian states, including Taraba, Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, and Ebonyi.