NEWS
Abia State Govt Says No Confirmed Lassa Fever Outbreak, Urges Residents to Remain Vigilant
The Abia State Ministry of Health has reassured residents that there is currently no confirmed outbreak of Lassa fever in the state, even as it called for heightened vigilance following reported cases in some parts of the country, including a neighbouring state.
In a public health advisory issued on Monday, the Ministry explained that although Abia State remains free of confirmed cases, preventive measures are necessary to reduce the risk of transmission and protect public health.
Lassa fever is a viral illness primarily transmitted through contact with food, household items, or surfaces contaminated with the urine or faeces of infected rats. The disease can also spread through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person, especially in healthcare settings.
The Ministry outlined common symptoms of Lassa fever to include fever, general weakness, headache, sore throat, vomiting, and diarrhoea. In severe cases, patients may experience bleeding or difficulty breathing. Health officials emphasized that early presentation at a health facility significantly improves survival outcomes.
Residents were advised to adopt key preventive measures such as keeping homes and surroundings clean to discourage rodents, storing food in well-covered containers, avoiding contact with rats and their droppings, and washing hands regularly with soap and water.
The Ministry also cautioned against bush burning and the consumption of rats, while urging healthcare workers to strictly adhere to infection prevention and control practices.
On treatment, the Ministry noted that Lassa fever is treatable in health facilities, especially when detected early and managed with appropriate medication.
Reassuring the public further, the Ministry stated that it has intensified surveillance and preparedness activities across all local government areas in the state. Residents were encouraged to promptly report any suspected symptoms to the nearest health facility.
For additional information or guidance, members of the public were advised to contact the Director of Public Health on 09157520845.
The advisory was signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Prof. Enoch O. Uche, who reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of 
Abia residents.