Death toll from Nigeria Lassa fever outbreak rises to 45

The Minister made this known yesterday, in Minna, Niger State during a courtesy call on the Governor of State, Abubakar Bello.

He also cautioned against self-medication and resort to traditional care, informing them that there are specific drugs for the treatment of Lassa fever in hospitals.

The minister also ordered the immediate renovation of the Primary Healthcare Centre in Fuka and reposition it to render 24 hours service.

The outbreak was only announced in January-months after the first case of the disease happened in August-with subsequent deaths reported in 10 states, including in the nation’s central capital Abuja and the bustling oil hub of Port Harcourt.

While condoling the community head and members of the village, Adewole advised them to report to the health officials as soon as they feel ill, he also congratulated the survivors.

A top official of the Nigerian Medical Association, Rivers state branch reportedly confirmed the death of doctor (name withheld).

The staff are believed to be apprehensive because of likely contact with patients may have all contacted the contagious viral disease.

“Since 2007, we have been making a case repeatedly for the establishment of centres of this nature in the other geopolitical zones or health zones in the country because Nigeria is a vast country”.

He pointed out that the ministry would support all States and local Governments in the training of health workers in the affected states, adding that there was need for further investigation of all the reported cases.

At least 44 people have died from Lassa fever in Nigeria with the death toll expected to rise, underscoring the difficulty in combating deadly viruses in a region still reeling from Ebola.