There is some measures of uncertainty in Kogi as a case of Lassa fever was today, Sunday, confirmed at the Accident and Emergency Unit of the Federal Medical Centre, Lokoja the State Capital, involving a male patient who resides at Angwan Kura, Lokoja.
Report reaching us from Lokoja said that the patient, after undergoing some analysis as a result of symptoms suggestive of haemorrhagic fever, was found to be infected with the fever.
“The State Epidemiologists immediately responded by sending the patient’s blood sample to the designated Laboratory at Federal Specialist Hospital Irrua, Edo State for analysis, which came back positive for Lasser fever. The patient was eventually transferred to Federal Specialist Hospital Irrua, Edo State for optimal care.”
Based on the report, the report said, the state commissioner for Health Dr. Saka Haruna Audu summoned the State Rapid Response Team during which provisions were made for source/contact tracing and prophylactic treatment for medical personnel who had contact with the patient before transfer, adding that all those who have had contact with the patient are currently being closely monitored.
“It is important to note that it was discovered that the patient had travelled to Illorin, Kwara State where he had stayed for two weeks. He only developed symptoms of haemorrhagic fever two days after his return. We are therefore uncertain whether he contracted the virus there or here in Lokoja.
The commissioner appealed to the people of the state to rise up in unison to prevent further spread of the disease, saying that now, jingles and other means of public enlightenment are ongoing.
He said that any suspected case of Lassa Fever or any one with useful information related to this subject matter should call 08030607102. [myad]
