The Cross River State Government has declared a Lassa fever outbreak in the Ejah Community of Osupong Ward 1, Obubra Local Government Area.
Dr Henry Ayuk, the Commissioner for Health, announced the outbreak and confirmed the cause of death in a notification released in Calabar.
“Investigation has been concluded and details of the deceased, a resident of Obubra, gotten from Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebony State—confirmed he died of Lassa fever”.
The deceased, a resident of Obubra, was diagnosed with Lassa fever at the Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebony State. The state government has initiated immediate measures, commencing with contact tracing and line listing to contain the spread.
“We are also mobilising Lassa fever commodities, consumables and personal protective equipment to the General Hospital Obubra and other locations”
The Community Rescue Service Emergency Operation Centre has been activated, with the state Rapid Response Team collaborating with the local government team for comprehensive actions in Obubra. This includes decontamination of affected areas, awareness campaigns, and risk communication.
Dr Ayuk emphasized the mobilization of essential resources, such as Lassa fever commodities, consumables, and personal protective equipment to the General Hospital Obubra and other identified locations.
The World Health Organisation identifies Lassa fever as an acute viral haemorrhagic disease, primarily transmitted through contact with infected Mastomys rodents or contaminated food and household items.
As the state gears up for a proactive response, authorities aim to mitigate further transmission and safeguard public health in the affected region.
