Lassa Fever Alert: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention

Lassa fever is a viral illness that typically occurs in West Africa

The Lassa virus is transmitted to humans mainly through handling rats, food or household items contaminated by rats’ urine and faeces. The virus can spread between people through direct contact with the person infected with Lassa fever, as well as contaminated bedding and clothing.

You cannot get Lassa fever through hugging, shaking hands or sitting near someone.

Symptoms of Lassa fever typically occur 2-21 days after coming into contact with the virus. Many people who are infected do not show symptoms. Fever, Headache, Sore throat , Chest and muscle pain , Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, Facial swelling, In severe cases, bleeding from the mouth, nose, vagina or gastro-intestinal tract are some of the common indications.

Lassa fever infection can be prevented by keeping good hygiene at all times. Washing your hands regularly and storing food items in containers with lids to prevent contact with rodents and insects.

Keep your home clean and tidy yo discourage rats from entering. For those that wouldn’t mind, keeping a cat is another way of making sure the house is rid of rats. When cooking all food items, especially meat and fishes must be cooked thoroughly. If you are infected with Lassa fever, you should get medical treatment early to improve your chances of surviving.