Anambra Confirms Lassa Fever Case

The Anambra State Government has confirmed a case of Lassa fever linked to Omasi in Ayamelum Local Government Area, as health officials have activated emergency measures to prevent further spread.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, disclosed this on Monday during an emergency stakeholders’ meeting in Awka.

Obidike said the state had intensified disease surveillance and public awareness. The meeting included health partners such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Following the meeting, the state activated its Incident Management System to coordinate the response.

The patient is receiving treatment at the Teaching Hospital in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. Health officials will also visit the affected household in Omasi, identify people who had contact with the patient, and classify them by level of exposure for proper monitoring.

Obidike urged residents with persistent fever or malaria-like symptoms that do not improve after appropriate treatment to seek medical attention promptly. He warned against relying solely on self-medication, stressing that early diagnosis and proper medical care are essential for managing Lassa fever.

Furthermore, the State Epidemiologist, Dr Chuma Emembolu, advised residents to keep food covered and store it in rodent-proof containers to prevent rat contamination. He urged residents to keep surroundings clean and prevent rodents from contaminating food and household items with their urine and droppings.

Emembolu further warned people to avoid direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of suspected or confirmed Lassa fever patients. He called for strict compliance with infection prevention measures and guidance from health professionals.

“We urge residents of Omasi, other communities in Ayamelum and the state at large, to remain vigilant, cooperate with public health officials and avoid spreading unverified information,” Emembolu said.

He added that the measures would strengthen preparedness, monitor potential contacts and reduce the risk of further transmission. Residents have been advised to report persistent fever and other suspected symptoms to health facilities promptly and follow public health guidance.