The Bauchi Government says Lassa fever has killed three people in the state, just as it recorded 25 suspected cases of the disease in seven local government areas.
The Chairman of the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Alhaji Ibrahim Gamawa, confirmed this on Tuesday at the opening of clinician sensitisation training on Lassa fever in Bauchi.
According to him, the state has recorded 25 suspected cases, five lab-confirmed cases, one probable case with three deaths between January 1 and March 4.
“Workers in health facilities are particularly at risk of contracting the disease.“Especially where infection prevention and control procedures are not strictly adhered to,’’ he said.
The chairman listed the affected local government areas as Alkaleri, Bauchi, Bogoro, Dass, Tafawa Balewa, Toro, and Warji.
Gamawa reminded healthcare workers that Lassa fever presents initially like any other disease-causing a febrile illness such as malaria.
He, therefore, advised them to practice standard precautions at all times, maintaining a high index of suspicion.
“Rapid Diagnostic Test must be applied to all suspected cases of malaria.“When the RDT is negative, other causes of febrile illness including Lassa fever should be considered.“Accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment increase the chances of survival,’’ he said.