By Muyideen Aliyu, Ilorin
The Kwara State Government has reassured the public that there is currently no internal transmission or active outbreak of Lassa fever within the state, despite a recent incident involving a patient from a neighboring region.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, clarified that the state remains on high alert following an isolated case that ended in the fatality of a 14-year-old boy.
The teenager, a resident of Ogun State, was brought into Kwara to seek specialized medical care. Despite receiving immediate attention from clinicians, the boy succumbed to the illness a few days after his arrival.
Post-mortem laboratory results subsequently confirmed that he had tested positive for Lassa fever. In response, the Ministry of Health immediately activated its rapid response measures to prevent any localized spread.
Dr. El-Imam disclosed that all healthcare workers who had direct contact with the patient, along with identified community members, were promptly placed under strict observation.
These preventive protocols included temporary isolation and the administration of necessary prophylactic medications.
“There is currently no evidence of Lassa fever transmission within Kwara,” the Commissioner affirmed, emphasizing that the risk to the general public remains low.
Residents have been urged to remain calm but vigilant. The Ministry has enjoined the public to maintain rigorous hygiene practices, such as securing food in rodent-proof containers, blocking entry points for vermin, and frequent handwashing with soap and running water.
Dr. El-Imam further encouraged anyone experiencing symptoms such as persistent fever, sore throat, headache, or general weakness to report to the nearest health facility immediately.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the health of all residents and cautioned the public to rely exclusively on verified information from official government sources to avoid unnecessary panic.