Lassa fever deaths in nigeria rise to 41
I'm not aware of any recent information about Lassa fever deaths in Nigeria rising to 41. However, I can provide some general information about Lassa fever and its impact in Nigeria.
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus, which is transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or contaminated food and water. The disease is endemic in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria, where it is a significant public health concern.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria has reported the highest number of Lassa fever cases and deaths in West Africa. The country's National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported a significant increase in Lassa fever cases and deaths in recent years, with the majority of cases occurring in the northern and central regions of the country.
In 2020, Nigeria reported a total of 6,762 cases of Lassa fever, with 123 deaths, according to the NCDC. This represents a significant increase from the 2019 figures, which reported 2,141 cases and 39 deaths.
The rise in Lassa fever cases and deaths in Nigeria is attributed to several factors, including:
- Climate change: Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns have led to an increase in rodent populations, which can carry the Lassa virus.
- Poor sanitation and hygiene: Inadequate waste management and poor hygiene practices can increase the risk of transmission of the virus.
- Lack of awareness: Many people in Nigeria are not aware of the risks and symptoms of Lassa fever, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
- Limited healthcare infrastructure: Nigeria's healthcare system is often overstretched, which can make it difficult to provide timely and effective treatment for Lassa fever patients.
To combat the spread of Lassa fever, the Nigerian government has implemented several measures, including:
- Enhanced surveillance: The NCDC has established a surveillance system to monitor and report cases of Lassa fever.
- Improved diagnosis: The government has increased the availability of diagnostic tests and trained healthcare workers to diagnose and treat Lassa fever.
- Vaccination: The government has launched a vaccination campaign to protect high-risk groups, such as healthcare workers and laboratory personnel.
- Public awareness: The government has launched public awareness campaigns to educate people about the risks and symptoms of Lassa fever.
It's important to note that Lassa fever is a serious disease that requires prompt medical attention. If you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, and vomiting, it's essential to seek medical care immediately.