The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reissued a warning to all healthcare workers, urging strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent Lassa fever infections and associated deaths.
The alert follows a recent surge in cases among medical personnel, with 15 confirmed infections and 2 fatalities recorded as of Epidemiological Week 7. NCDC emphasized that healthcare workers remain at heightened risk due to their close contact with infected patients.
Surveillance data indicate that infections have been reported across multiple states, including Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Ebonyi, and Benue, with certain Local Government Areas (LGAs) identified as high-risk hotspots. The agency highlighted the importance of early detection, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and adherence to infection prevention and control (IPC) measures in healthcare settings.
NCDC’s advisory also calls on hospital administrators to provide adequate resources, ensure training on Lassa fever protocols, and monitor staff for early signs of infection. Public health experts warn that without rigorous precautions, healthcare facilities could become centers for further transmission.
The agency reiterated that Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness, poses a significant threat in endemic regions, particularly during the dry season. NCDC urges all healthcare personnel to report suspected cases immediately and maintain high standards of hygiene, patient handling, and waste management to curb the spread.
