76 people test positive for Lassa fever in Edo

76 people have tested positive for Lassa fever in Edo State following a test carried out on 175 suspected cases in the state.

Edo State commissioner of health, Dr Patrick Okundia gave out the figure on Friday January 24, during a Lassa fever committee meeting headed by the State’s Deputy Governor Mr Philip Shaibu and a representative of the World Health Organization (WHO).

“A total of 76 suspected cases of Lassa fever were confirmed yesterday in the state and they are currently on admission in the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital. We have not recorded any new death but have also reduced our case fatality rate to less than 10 per cent. The number of cases in the ward now is 34, and we have discharge over 28 patients that have been fully treated and cured.” Okundia said;

Edo State Deputy Governor, Mr Philip Shaibu on his own part urged hospitals in all parts of the state to refer suspected cases to Irrua Specialist hospital and isolation centres.

“Ministries of environment, agriculture, education, information and other relevant ministries should also step up in the area of public awareness of the people. The 18 local government councils of the state should call for emergency meeting which will include private health practitioners for the purpose of early referral.” He said