PROTECTION AGAINST LASSA FEVER

 

Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by a RNA virus of the arenaviridae virus family first described in 1969 in the town of Lassa in borno state. It is caused by an infection with the Lassa virus which is spread by rat (mastomys rat) that lives in large numbers in Africa, due to poor hygiene, especially in poverty ridden areas alongside its devastating effect. There has been record of numerous outbreak as well as death toll in different states in West Africa. 

After series of outbreak in major states in Nigeria, including the major cities which are Lagos State, Abuja FCT, Oyo State, Kano State, etc, it has now become imperative to guide against this deadly disease. 

 

The ministry of health has taken a wave of public awareness of control practices and good infection protection to prevent increase in outbreak of this infectious disease especially in areas where there are more casualties. They advise that the general public should avoid contact between rats and human as this may pave way for the contraction of this deadly virus. 

Also, prevent inhalation of the substance (aerosol) maybe during sweeping floors where the droppings are present, and ensure to dispose waste properly. 

Others includes:

1. Secure and maintain a good personal hygiene and clean environment to prevent breeding space of this rodents (rat) as well as preventing them from entering the house.
2. Avoid the use of rat as food and store food in rat proof containers. Cook meals well before eating to protect against this zoonotic diseases.
3. Be very careful with victims of this virus as fluids from infected persons are very dangerous. Avoid direct contact with infected victims via sweat, food, blood, faces, urine, needles, sexual transmission and household items, contaminated with the rodent urine or faeces. 
4. Gloves, masks, laboratory coats, and goggles are advised while in contact with an infected person. Significantly, every hospitals should ensure adequate infection prevention and control measures. 
5. Military biologist that studies infectious diseases have developed a replication competent vaccine against Lassa virus based on recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus vectors expressing the Lassa virus glycoprotein. A single intramuscular injection proves to be a sophisticated weapon against this virus. 
6. Report any cases of symptoms and persistent high fever to the nearest health center. Early supportive care with rehydration and symptomatic treatment improves survival.

written by: Bunmi Lawal