Abuja records first Lassa fever death

Lassa fever outbreak landed in Abuja and claimed its first victim in the nation’s capital, a 33-year-old, man who came to Abuja on a visit from Jos, Plateau State. There are already 41 deaths and 93 reported cases.
Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, confirmed development and said the victim, died at the National Hospital, Abuja.
The latest death from Lassa fever brings the total number of deaths to 43 in the country from 10 states. The minister, who made the announcement at the National Hospital last night, called on health workers at all levels to be more vigilant and look out for patients displaying symptoms of the disease.
He also directed all primary and secondary contacts of the victim should be tracked, including staff of the private hospital in Kubwa where the deceased was first managed for one week and subsequently became unconscious be-fore his referral to the National Hospital. Adewole further advised that family members should report at the nearest hospital if anyone has fever for more than two days
He, however, urged residents of Abuja not to panic but to maintain high level of vigilance and present them¬selves for test if they feel unhealthy or they feel symptoms of Lassa fever.
Medical Director of the hospital, Dr. Jack Momoh, who briefed the minister on the victim during his visit, explained that the patient was brought in unconscious.