The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is grappling with an outbreak of Lassa Fever, marking a concerning development in public health. The cases, involving a 14-month-old baby and a 15-year-old female, were confirmed amidst heightened vigilance. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported as of now.
Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health and Environment Services Secretariat, addressed the media during a press conference in Abuja on Monday. She disclosed that the confirmation stemmed from the examination of four recent suspected cases. The alarm was raised on January 15, 2024, when the FCT Public Health Department received an alert from a clinician at Bwari General Hospital.
Prompt action was taken as a rapid response team was swiftly mobilized to investigate the cases. The subsequent findings revealed that the affected individuals were high-risk contacts of their deceased mother. In response to this alarming situation, emergency operation centers have been activated to contain and manage the outbreak effectively. The authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and adhere to recommended preventive measures to curb the spread of Lassa Fever in the FCT.
