Rivers State health officials have verified the death of an individual in a recent Lassa fever flare-up within the Rivers state region.
Dr. Adaeze Oreh, the State Commissioner for Health, revealed the incident in Port Harcourt, indicating four reported cases at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.
Of the cases, one was confirmed posthumously, while the remaining three were successfully treated and discharged.
Oreh stated, “Out of 42 suspected cases, 31 are deemed symptomatic high-risk contacts linked to confirmed cases. Currently, 72 contacts are under surveillance, with 30 completing the incubation period.”
She emphasized collaborative efforts among health stakeholders to curb the outbreak and assured the public of the government’s resolve to address the situation.
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“The State Ministry of Health, alongside healthcare institutions and global health bodies, is actively engaged to safeguard lives,” Oreh affirmed.
Assuring ample resources to combat the outbreak, Oreh urged public adherence to hygiene practices and emphasized preventive measures against rodent contamination.
“All health facilities are urged to implement trial systems and uphold infection prevention protocols,” she advised.
The public was encouraged to maintain cleanliness, cover food and water to deter rodent access, and use rodent-proof storage for food items.
