The Abia State government says its attention has been drawn to a reported epidemic of Lassa Fever at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Umuahia, capital of Abia State.
The State Commissioner for Information, John Okiyi Kalu, in a statement on Monday, said the state Ministry of health, was working assiduously with the authorities of FMC towards ensuring full containment of the disease and prophylactic treatment of others who may have come in contact with the victims.
“We have fully deployed all our emergency medical response systems to instantly ensure full containment and management of the outbreak”, Kalu stated.
“The government wishes to call on members of the public to be vigilant and report all suspected cases to the nearest medical facility in the state.
“All those who had contact with the child, suspected to be the index case, and the medical practitioner who lost her life, should report to FMC Umuahia immediately for further review," he added.
“Drugs for treatment of Lassa Fever are available in the state in good quantities and there is no cause for panic as the disease can be successfully treated, especially if diagnosed early.
“Members of the public are advised to ensure that they maintain clean and sanitary environment at all times.
“Our hearts and prayers are with the families and friends of the two identified victims of this sad and unfortunate outbreak. May God be with them at this time and always,” he said.
