Rivers state launches ‘Operation kill all Rats’

In a bid to eradicate Lassa Fever, the Rivers state Government has launched ‘Operation kill all Rats.’

The Commissioner of Health Dr. Theophillus Odagme, while speaking to newsmen said the purpose of the emergency initiative as to raise awareness on the disease and also inform residents of the needs to keep rats away from their homes.

He said “Last week, three persons were admitted into one of the treatment centres. Two of the patients were referred from private clinics; one is related to a late victim, while the other came from a public hospital.

“Samples were taken for analysis, but the results came out negative. They were stabilised and discharged for proper treatment of their cases.”

Adding that “As at the last count, 403 persons were being monitored but the first set of 60 placed under watch following the index case, have been discharged after completing the 21 days virus incubation period without manifesting any symptom.

Read: 7 symptoms of the disease you should know

“The contact tracing teams (13 teams) are still on, meeting and monitoring them every day. There is a massive sensitisation going on in markets, churches and mosques to educate residents on the need to improve their personal hygiene and clean their surroundings as preventive measures.”

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