REPORTER: UCHE NDEKE
The Anambra State Government has activated an emergency public health response following the confirmation of a Lassa fever case in Omasi community in Ayamelum Local Government Area.
The affected patient is presently receiving treatment at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, in Ebonyi State.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, disclosed this during an emergency stakeholders’ meeting at the ministry’s headquarters in Awka.
According to him, the 50 year old patient started having the symptoms on September 30, and immediately went to hospital where trained healthcare providers confirmed the case and later transfered her to Ebonyi State where she is responding to treatment.
He said the state was strengthening its preparedness and response mechanisms to ensure prompt identification, monitoring and management of suspected cases.
Doctor Obidike said 8 persons who came in contact with the victim had been identified and were being monitored.
Doctor Obidike urged residents experiencing persistent fever or malaria-like symptoms that do not improve with appropriate treatment to seek medical attention promptly.
Anambra State Epidemiologist, Dr Emembolu Chuma, advised residents to store food in covered, rodent-proof containers, maintain clean surroundings and prevent rats from contaminating food and household items.
