Lassa Fever: Still A Public Health Crisis in Nigeria
By Maimuna Katuka Aliyu,
Lassa fever, initially an endemic illness, has grown into a troubling public health threat in West Africa. This viral hemorrhagic disease, caused by the Lassa virus from the Arenaviridae family, originates from the multimammate rat (Mastomys species), which spreads the virus through contaminated food or household items.
First identified in Lassa, Nigeria, in 1969, the virus has since infected thousands, causing widespread fear due to its high fatality rate and challenging symptoms.
How It Spreads
The Lassa virus is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodent urine or feces. Human-to-human transmission is also possible, particularly through direct contact with bodily fluids like blood or saliva in healthcare settings.
Symptoms
Early symptoms, often mistaken for other illnesses like malaria or typhoid, include fever, fatigue, sore throat, and headaches. In severe cases, patients may experience bleeding, respiratory distress, organ failure, and neurological complications.
One of the lasting effects of Lassa fever is hearing loss, which affects roughly 25% of survivors.
Countries Affected
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Nigeria: The hardest-hit country, with thousands of cases reported each year. In early 2021 alone, Nigeria recorded over 4,600 suspected cases and 102 deaths.
Liberia: With 91 cases and a 16.5% fatality rate, Liberia has also been severely impacted.
Sierra Leone and Guinea: While these nations report fewer cases, the disease remains a significant concern.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Because symptoms overlap with other illnesses, laboratory testing is essential for diagnosing Lassa fever. Treatment primarily includes the antiviral drug ribavirin and supportive care. Severe cases may require oxygen therapy, dialysis, and isolation to prevent further spread.
Long-Term Effects
Survivors may experience complications like hearing loss, temporary hair loss, gait disturbances, and even permanent organ damage.
Preventing Lassa Fever
To curb the spread, health ministries and communities should:
Enforce hygiene and safe food storage practices
Promote rodent control
Equip healthcare workers with protective gear
Raise public awareness
Strengthen disease surveillance systems
Last Line
The battle against Lassa fever demands cooperation from health ministries, healthcare workers, and the public. Together, they can implement effective prevention measures to control the spread and save lives.
