The Anambra State Government has confirmed a case of Lassa fever linked to Omasi community in Ayamelum Local Government Area, prompting the activation of emergency measures to prevent further transmission.
The affected patient is currently receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, in Ebonyi State, according to the state government.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, disclosed the development on Monday during an emergency stakeholders’ meeting in Awka, where health officials and partner organizations discussed measures to contain the infection.
Obidike said the state had activated its Incident Management System and intensified disease surveillance and public awareness to strengthen its response.
Health officials are expected to visit the affected household in Omasi, identify individuals who may have come into contact with the patient and assess their level of exposure to determine the appropriate monitoring required.
The response is being supported by health partners, including the World Health Organization and Médecins Sans Frontières.
The commissioner urged residents experiencing persistent fever or malaria-like symptoms that do not improve with appropriate treatment to seek medical attention without delay.
He cautioned against relying solely on self-medication, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and prompt medical care in managing suspected Lassa fever infections.
Also speaking at the meeting, the State Epidemiologist, Dr Chuma Emembolu, advised residents to take preventive measures against rodents, which can transmit the virus through their urine and droppings.
He urged households to keep food covered, store foodstuffs in rodent-proof containers and maintain clean surroundings to prevent rats from contaminating food and household items.
Emembolu also warned residents against direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of suspected or confirmed Lassa fever patients, urging strict adherence to infection prevention guidelines.
The state government called on residents of Omasi, other communities in Ayamelum and the wider state to remain vigilant, cooperate with health officials and avoid spreading unverified information.
The emergency response is intended to monitor potential contacts, strengthen preparedness and minimize the risk of further infections.
Lassa fever is a viral disease commonly transmitted to humans through food or household items contaminated by infected rodents. Human-to-human transmission can also occur through contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person, particularly where appropriate infection prevention measures are not followed.
Residents have been urged to report persistent symptoms promptly and follow the guidance of health professionals as surveillance and containment efforts continue.
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