The Federal Government on Monday urged Nigerians to disregard Whatsapp and Twitter messages making the rounds about suspected Lassa fever cases in the Asokoro District Hospital of Abuja.
A statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, said that contrary to the message being circulated, no death had been recorded from Lassa fever in the FCT recently. He said that the disease normally first appears like malaria, but the chances of survival could be high when reported early.
“All cases of fever must be tested for malaria using appropriate diagnostic tools like the rapid diagnostic kit (RDT).
“If the result is negative and other common causes of fever are ruled out, healthcare workers are advised to suspect Lassa fever,” NAN quoted him as saying. The NCDC urged FCT residents to stay alert for Lassa fever, know the symptoms and report immediately to a health facility when symptoms were observed.
Ihekweazu, however, urged Nigerians to report any information on Lassa fever via NCDC toll-free line: 0800 9700 0010, or via WhatsApp: +234708 711 0839.
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