Lassa Fever Sweeps Oyo Communities, Two People Reported Dead

Following the emergence of Lassa fever in the state, the Oyo State administration reported the deaths of two persons, with many more being hospitalized at the State General Hospital.

Dr. Bode Ladipo, the state’s Commissioner for Health, stated this in a statement released on Monday, January 17, and made available to journalists in Ibadan, claiming that the state government is doing everything necessary to prevent the virus from spreading further.

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“The Ministry’s attention was directed to reported incidences of deaths at Iwajowa Local Government Area of Oyo State on Wednesday, 12th January 2022,” the statement said. Fever, gastrointestinal problems, and some neck swelling were said to be linked to the deaths.

“A high-level investigation team led by the Honourable Commissioner for Health was dispatched to the LGA on Thursday, January 13th, 2022 to examine the situation and offer the necessary support to prevent the disease from spreading further.”

“The team included senior Ministry officials, members of the State Primary Healthcare Board, and representatives from the World Health Organization” (WHO).

“A preliminary visit to the State General Hospital in Iwere lle revealed an increase in the number of cases brought from the Gaa Agbaruru settlement, as well as confirmation of two (2) deaths at the hospital.” The crew was then brought to Gaa Agbaruru, a Fulani hamlet in the LGA’s Iwere ward where the disease victims lived.

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“It was discovered that some people had 

symptoms listed above but were recovering.” It was also proven that there was a lot of interaction between the residents, rodents, and bats. Furthermore, the difficulty of getting drinkable water was mentioned.

“Blood samples were gathered from the people who were recovering, as well as water samples. For analysis and confirmation, these samples were transported to Abuja’s National Reference Laboratory for Haemorrhagic Fever.

“The Reference Laboratory’s inquiry result was received today, January 17th, 2022, with two (2) of the ten (10) samples testing positive for Lassa Fever.

“As a result, the Ministry has relocated antiviral dosages for treatment of Lassa Fever cases, as well as personal protective equipment for health care personnel at Iwere lle and Iganna.” In the communities, health education and environmental cleanliness are now being implemented.

“The State Surveillance System has been enhanced across the state’s Local Governments. Suspected illnesses should be directed to the nearest government hospital for free, high-quality treatment.”