REPORTER: AMAKA ISIRUE
Enugu State Government has assured residents that health facilities and healthcare workers are on high alert to prevent the outbreak of Lassa Fever in the state.
The Commissioner for Health, Prof George Ugwu, stated this at a press briefing in Enugu.
Prof Ugwu said that the state was yet to record any case of the disease and that proactive measures were being taken to contain the spread of Lassa fever.
He stated that with three hundred and twenty eight confirmed cases and eighty deaths reported across eighteen states in Nigeria including KOGI, Benue and Ebonyi, residents of the state has a duty to be vigilant and report any suspected cases to nearest health care facilities in their areas.
”Because of our proximity to these affected areas-particularly our shared borders with Benue and Ebonyi States, we are now in a high alert phase and engaging our partners.
Triaging of patients is mandatory for all patients at a designated point of the facility.
Patients with symptoms and signs of infectious diseases should be referred to facilities with capacity to manage them.
Facilities, especially the tertiary facilities must provide a holding area for suspected cases and immediately alert the State through proper notification channel.”
Prof Ugwu advised health workers to strictly follow infection control guidelines while ensuring disinfection procedures and proper waste disposal.
He noted that the state government has established in all local government areas Rapid response Team and surveillance .
”Keep your home and surroundings always clean. Block holes and cracks in walls and floors to prevent rats from entering. Clear bushes around houses and avoid dumping refuse near homes.
Store grains and other food items in tightly sealed containers. Avoid drying food items by the roadside or in open spaces where rodents can contaminate them. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.
Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water. Use hand sanitizers where water is not available.”
He continued “Do not handle or consume rats or other rodents as food. Avoid contact with the blood, urine, feces, or body fluids of any sick person. Surveillance has been elevated to “Enhanced Mode” in all the LGAs and especially in the hotspot LGAS.
Prof. Ugwu encouraged the public to avoid drying food items on the roadside and also having contact with the blood of any sick person.
According to him, any suspected case of Lassa fever should be reported to the ministry through 08037431577 or 08033375344.
Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026
