LASSA FEVER CLAIMS ONE LIFE IN JIGAWA, HEALTH OFFICIALS PLACE CONTACTS UNDER SURVEILLANCE

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

A confirmed case of Lassa fever has claimed one life in Jigawa State, prompting health authorities to place several persons under surveillance as efforts intensify to contain a possible outbreak.

The Jigawa State Rapid Response Team from the Public Health Department of the Ministry of Health, led by WHO/APHO, Dr. Sabiu Aliyu, confirmed the development on Wednesday following an investigation at Babura General Hospital.

Dr. Aliyu said the deceased, identified as Habibu Haruna, was a resident of Gari Uku village in Babura Local Government Area and was admitted to Babura General Hospital after presenting symptoms consistent with Lassa fever.

According to him, the patient was later referred to Danmasara Teaching Hospital, where laboratory tests confirmed the Lassa fever infection. Investigations further revealed that the deceased had recently travelled to Saminaka in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Outlining measures taken to prevent further spread, Dr. Aliyu said essential drugs and personal protective equipment had been supplied to Babura General Hospital, while contact tracing and active surveillance had commenced.

“The community where the deceased came from, as well as health personnel who handled the case, are currently under surveillance throughout the incubation period,” he said.

He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with health authorities, noting that Lassa fever is a viral disease transmitted through contact with infected rodents or through person-to-person contact.

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Dr. Aliyu added that the Jigawa State Ministry of Health is working round the clock to contain the situation and prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the state.

Also speaking, the Information Officer of Babura Local Government Area, Suleman Daudu, said the council is taking proactive steps to safeguard residents.

“We are working closely with health officials to contain the outbreak and ensure public safety,” Daudu said.

He urged residents to promptly report symptoms such as fever, vomiting, bleeding, or weakness to health facilities for immediate medical attention.