…Etsako West most affected LGA as confirmed cases reach 96
Lucky Obukohwo Reporting
Edo State has continued to record a steady rise in the number of confirmed cases and fatalities from Lassa fever with the government calling for the cooperation and support of residents to stop the spread of the disease.
Speaking to journalists in Benin City, the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akoria Obehi, said the state has recorded eight new cases of Lassa fever in the last 24 hours, with one new death.
She said the new cases were recorded in Etsako West, Esan North East, Esan West and Egor Local Government Areas (LGAs), reiterating the need for residents across all communities to observe preventive measures against the spread of the disease.
According to her, “Edo State has recorded eight new cases of Lassa fever raising the total number of cases in the state to 96. We also confirmed a new death from the disease, raising the fatality figure to nine with a case fatality rate of nine percent. So far, four deaths have been recorded in Etsako West and two in Esan North East, while Etsako East, Oredo, and Esan West LGAs have confirmed one death each from the disease.”
Lamenting the community spread of the disease, Prof. Akoria noted that Etsako West LGA is the most affected by Lassa fever in the state with 37 confirmed cases and four deaths, followed by Esan West LGA with 24 cases and Esan North East LGA with 19 confirmed cases.
Reassuring the government’s commitment to contain the pandemic and ensure the health of citizens, the Commissioner said 42 persons are currently on admission at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, adding, “The 42 persons, including 30 adults and 12 children are currently receiving medical care at the ISTH and are responding to treatment.”
She further noted, “While the government is implementing a number of measures to prevent the spread of the disease in the state, we urge everyone to support the government’s efforts in curbing the spread of Lassa fever by complying with guidelines to stay healthy and safe.
“Wash your hands frequently with soap and water; avoid contact with rat urine or feces; avoid consuming contaminated food or water and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms of Lassa fever, such as fever, headache, muscle pain, and weakness.”