Health
By Befitbu Health Desk May 10, 2024
Lassa Fever Overview
1.
Caused by the Lassa virus, this viral hemorrhagic fever is endemic to West Africa, transmitted through contact with infected rodents.
Endemic Regions
2.
Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea face annual outbreaks, posing significant public health threats.
Rodent Reservoirs
3.
Mastomys rodents, especially the multimammate rat, carry the virus, infecting humans through contact or contaminated food.
Clinical Presentation
4.
Symptoms range from mild (fever, headache) to severe hemorrhagic fever with organ failure, often fatal.
Treatment
6.
No specific antiviral therapy; supportive care includes fluids, electrolyte balance, and oxygen therapy.
Prevention
7.
Key measures include hygiene, avoiding rodents, safe food storage, and vector control.
Healthcare Worker Safety
8.
PPE use is vital to reduce nosocomial transmission risk.
Public Health Response
9.
Surveillance, case management, contact tracing, and community education are crucial.
Research & Vaccine
10.
Ongoing research is essential for vaccine development and control strategies to reduce the disease burden.