Plateau Records Lassa Fever Cases, Two Deaths Confirmed
Jos, Plateau State — The Plateau State Ministry of Health has confirmed two cases of Lassa fever, both resulting in fatalities, officials said on Tuesday.
The confirmed cases were recorded in Unguwan Gar and Kwalla communities in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area, according to Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, the state Commissioner for Health.
The patients were transferred to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Teaching Hospital in Bauchi State for treatment and are currently receiving care.
Authorities have identified 69 individuals who had contact with the patients. These contacts are being monitored according to national and international health protocols to prevent further spread of the virus.
The ministry has activated an Incident Management System (IMS) to coordinate a comprehensive response. The state epidemiologist has been appointed as Incident Manager, responsible for surveillance, case management, risk communication, and public awareness campaigns.
Public Awareness and Health Worker Training
Dr. Baamlong stressed that public sensitization and health worker training are key in controlling the outbreak. Residents are being educated on hygiene, infection prevention, and early reporting of symptoms.
About Lassa Fever
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or body fluids of infected persons. Symptoms include fever, headache, body weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, bleeding from the mouth or nose.
Preventive Measures
The health commissioner urged residents to:
- Maintain cleanliness in homes and surroundings
- Store food in covered containers
- Eat properly cooked meals
- Report persistent fever immediately to nearby health facilities
He also warned against unhygienic practices in some slaughter slabs where meat is washed with contaminated water, which can cause Lassa fever and other diseases like cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis A.
The Plateau State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting residents’ health and called on all stakeholders to support efforts to contain the outbreak.
