Lassa fever cases rise in Nigeria: Death toll rises to 162

In a statement, the Nigerian Center for Disease Control stated that Lassa fever cases continue to increase in 21 other states in the country, as well as the capital Abuja. The statement noted that 10 new Lassa fever cases were seen in the country between August 25-31, thus bringing the number of Lassa cases between January 1-31 to 871. The statement also stated that the number of people who died from Lassa fever during the period in question rose to 162. The statement noted that the total number of suspected and confirmed cases in the country was lower compared to the same period last year, and warned of persistent risks. Last year, 190 people lost their lives nationwide due to the Lassa virus.

WHAT IS LASSA FEVER ? The Nigerian government declared a state of emergency on January 23, 2019, due to Lassa fever. Lassa fever, which is seen in many African countries such as Mali, Togo, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, was first detected in Nigeria in 1969 in the northeastern state of Borno. Transmitted through contact with rat feces, the disease can spread from person to person and causes fatal hemorrhagic fever. Authorities are warning the public to avoid contact with rats and other rodents.