The Kwara State Ministry of Health has clarified that there is currently no confirmed case of Lassa fever in the state, despite the recent death of a 14-year-old boy who tested positive for the disease.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina El-Imam, explained that the teenager, a resident of Ogun State, was brought into Kwara for medical treatment. He was attended to by healthcare workers but sadly passed away a few days later.
According to the commissioner, laboratory results later confirmed that the boy had Lassa fever.
“Following the confirmation, the Kwara State Ministry of Health immediately swung into action and activated its rapid response measures,” she said.
El-Imam noted that all healthcare workers who had contact with the deceased, as well as identified members of the community, were immediately placed under observation. She said necessary preventive steps were taken, including isolation and the administration of appropriate medications where required.
She assured residents that there is no ongoing transmission of Lassa fever in Kwara State and urged the public to remain calm.
The commissioner, however, advised residents to stay alert and maintain proper hygiene to prevent the disease from spreading into the state.
She emphasised the importance of keeping homes and surroundings clean to avoid rodent infestation, which is a major source of Lassa fever transmission.
She also encouraged anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever, sore throat, headache, or general weakness to report promptly to the nearest health facility for medical attention.
