Nigeria’s Lassa Fever Outbreak Contained, Says WHO

THE World Health Organisation (WHO) has assured that with declining numbers and only a handful of confirmed cases reported in recent weeks, the critical phase of Nigeria’s largest Lassa Fever outbreak was under control.

A statement issued by the organisation’s Communication Officer, Ms. Charity Warigon, in Abuja, yesterday, said continued vigilance is, however, needed, as the country is still Lassa Fever endemic.

She said this year, 423 confirmed cases, including 106 deaths, had been reported, but that national case numbers had consistently declined in the past six weeks.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Warigon stated that the numbers had dropped below levels considered to be of national emergency, when compared with data from previous outbreaks. She noted that in the week ending May 6, only three new confirmed cases were reported, stating that people could still be infected throughout the year; hence the need for continued vigilance.

The United Nations (UN) agency congratulated Nigeria for reaching a milestone in the fight against Lassa Fever, but urged the country not to “let its foot off the pedal.”

It assured the Federal Government of its continuous support in maintaining intensified response to the outbreak, adding: “WHO continues to help states that have reported new cases by strengthening their capacity to conduct disease surveillance, treat patients, implement infection prevention and control measures, laboratory diagnostics and engaging with communities.