Lassa Fever: Anambra Confirms Case, Activates Emergency Response in Ayamelum
By Chibuzor Okoye | IchieTimes
The Anambra State Government has confirmed a case of Lassa fever involving a patient linked to Omasi community in Ayamelum Local Government Area and activated an emergency response to strengthen surveillance and prevent further transmission.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ meeting at the ministry’s headquarters in Awka, where he announced intensified public awareness and disease surveillance measures following the confirmation.
He said the state had convened an emergency meeting involving health partners, including the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), leading to the activation of the Incident Management System for a coordinated response to the public health concern.
The affected patient is currently receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (FETHA), in Ebonyi State.
As part of the response, health officials are expected to follow up on the affected household in Omasi, identify individuals who may have had contact with the patient and classify them according to their level of exposure for appropriate monitoring and follow-up.
Dr Obidike urged residents experiencing persistent fever or malaria-like symptoms that do not improve with appropriate treatment to seek medical attention promptly. He cautioned against relying solely on self-medication, stressing that early diagnosis and proper medical care are essential.
The State Epidemiologist, Dr Chuma Emembolu, advised residents to keep food covered and store it in rodent-proof containers, maintain clean surroundings and prevent rats from contaminating food and household items with their urine and droppings.
He also warned against direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of suspected or confirmed Lassa fever patients, urging residents to observe infection prevention measures and follow the guidance of health professionals.
The Ministry of Health called on residents of Omasi, other communities in Ayamelum and the wider Anambra State to remain vigilant, cooperate with public health officials and avoid spreading unverified information.
The government said the response measures were aimed at improving preparedness, monitoring potential contacts and reducing the risk of further transmission.
