The National Orientation Agency, (NOA), has disclosed that the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)’s Epidemiological Report of Week-41 indicates that from October 2024 to date, 1,025 cases of Lassa Fever were confirmed across 28 States of the federation, with 174 deaths, representing a fatality ratio of 17%.
The NOA Director-General, Dr. Lanre Onilu, disclosed this in a press briefing to mark the commencement of the organisation’s nationwide campaign to create awareness of the preventable measures that will help nip in the bud the infection and spread of Lassa Fever.
Represented by the Deputy Director of Health, Simon Idoko he said, “To reduce the probabilities of the outbreak and infection, deliberate and concerted efforts must be made, like awareness creation and sensitisation campaigns for citizens, especially those in rural areas, to understand Lassa fever and limit infection rates”.
While appealing to citizens to imbibe the culture of good hygiene, the DG said NOA, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, NCDC and other stakeholders, is launching this nationwide preventive campaign to educate Nigerians on the risks, prevention, and control measures to combat the disease.
“We appreciate the support of the NCDC and other stakeholders within the Health sector for their partnership and collaboration. Together, we can change the narrative for the betterment of our country in line with President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.
According to him, “The fight against Lassa Fever required collective efforts. We must work together to prevent the spread further and protect our citizens”.
