What is Lassa fever?

Lassa Feveris a fever caused by the Lassa virus, a member of the arenavirus family of viruses which is predominantly found in west Africa.

Rodents (Rats) are the known vectors of the Lassa virus.

Read: 110 suspected Lassa fever patients isolated in Ogun state

The Lassa virus is transmitted to humans via contact with food or household items contaminated with rodent urine or faeces.

It is also transmitted through contact of bodily fluids (including urine and sweat), faeces or blood with an infected person.

So far, Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea and the Central African Republic are the countries with known cases of Lassa fever.

Read: 10 states where cases of Lassa fever have been recorded

Prevention of Lassa fever

At home

Read: WHO calls for intensive awareness campaign of Lassa fever prevention in rural areas

Health workers

Read: 10 things you should know about Lassa fever

In public areas

Public places are almost unavoidable, from entering public buses to churches, schools etc. Because you cannot tell who is virus free and who is not, it is necessary you to take safety measures.