SAN FRANCISCO, August 23, (THEWILL) – The Edo State Government has told residents of the state to remain calm saying it has reactivated its response and surveillance team for the prevention of Lassa fever, as four persons were reported to have died from the epidemic in the state.
The recent victims, including a medical doctor, were said to have died in Anambra State and their blood samples tested positive at the centre for Lassa fever diagnosis and treatment – located within the Irrua Specialist Hospital, in Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
According to the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Eregia Ahianuwa, there was no need for residents to panic because the disease surveillance officers had swung into action by moving into rural communities, where additional awareness was required.
“We have taken the relevant measures already. We never really stopped. But we have reactivated our response team.” She said.
“We have disease surveillance officers. They started moving out yesterday to go beyond the cities.
“Our jingles have been reactivated. So, we want to acquaint people with this information, in case they have forgotten.
“Once that is back to its peak, we are already doing something. So far, there is no reported case in Edo. For that, we are grateful.
“We know that our state is a transit area and a lot of persons pass through. So, once people are aware that they should still take the relevant precaution, in terms of storage of their food water, washing of hands and proper disposal of their waste and avoiding touching the rat, then that means things will continue to be okay for us.
“There is no need for panic at all. Like I said, there is no reported case in Edo State. We have a centre in Edo for the management of Lassa fever.
“Even beyond that, the point is prevention; that is what we need. A lot of persons should become more aware. Once people are reminded and they take the relevant precaution, there is no problem. There is no need to panic at all.”
Story by David Oputah
