The Kaduna State government has confirmed a case of Lassa fever in Chukun local government area of the state.
The State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Amina Mohammed-Baloni, who confirmed the outbreak on Saturday, said the 35-year-old male patient is being treated at the designated Infectious Disease Control Centre in the state capital.
The commissioner assured that the Ministry of Health has supplied the “infectious diseases control centre with the necessary medical commodities as well as mobilized health personnel to manage any cases that may arise.”
The commissioner also reiterated the ministry’s earlier appeal to the public to maintain the highest standard of individual hygiene and to report any suspected cases promptly to the nearest health facility.
The statement further stated that all Kaduna State Government health facilities are on the alert to look out for more cases of the virus.
“The epidemiology unit is monitoring the situation closely, and all health facilities are on alert for prompt referral of suspected cases,’’ Dr Mohammed-Baloni said.
“We wish to appeal to members of the public to maintain the highest standards of personal hygiene, keep food in proper storage and to remain vigilant to report suspected cases to the relevant authorities.
“Suspected cases should be reported to the State Epidemiology unit on 08036045755 or 08027396344 or contact the nearest Local Government Health Authority official,’’ Dr Mohammed-Baloni added.
“Let us all work together to keep our state safe and make early reports to enable prompt treatment for patients who contact this highly infectious disease,’’ the commissioner appealed.
