This special edition of the weekly update highlights emerging threats to public health and human security in the Niger Delta with a focus on the resurgence of Lassa fever in Ondo and Edo State. Lassa Fever, also known as Lassa hemorrhagic fever (LHF) is a zoonotic and acute viral disease caused by the Lassa virus. It is transmitted through food and household items contaminated by infected rodents and contact with infected persons. Symptoms include fever, weakness, headache, cough, diarrhea, chest pain and breathing problems. It is an epidemic-prone infectious disease with significant public health consequences. According to epidemiological data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), 170 cases of Lassa fever and 32 deaths were reported across Nigeria in January 2022. Cases were reported in 37 LGAs across 12 States, including Ondo and Edo. According to NCDC’s Lassa fever Situation Reports, as of January 23, 2022, 56.5% of all confirmed cases were reported in Edo and Ondo State. Ondo also had the highest number of Lassa fever related deaths during the period, with a Case Fatality Ratio (CFR) of 21%.
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