Anambra Steps Up Surveillance After Confirming Lassa Fever Case

The Anambra State Government has intensified surveillance and contact tracing following the confirmation of a Lassa fever case in Omasi community, Ayamelum Local Government Area.

The government has also activated its emergency response system to contain the infection and prevent further transmission.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, disclosed this during an emergency stakeholders’ meeting in Awka, noting that the patient was receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.

According to him, the state has activated its Incident Management System and strengthened collaboration with health partners, including the World Health Organisation and Médecins Sans Frontières, to coordinate containment efforts.

Obidike said health officials would visit the affected household, identify individuals who had contact with the patient and assess their exposure to determine appropriate monitoring measures.

He urged residents to avoid self-medication and seek medical attention if they experience persistent fever or malaria-like symptoms that do not respond to treatment.

The State Epidemiologist, Dr Chuma Emembolu, also advised residents to observe preventive measures, particularly proper food storage and environmental hygiene.

He urged households to store food in rodent-proof containers, maintain clean surroundings and avoid contact with the blood and other bodily fluids of suspected or confirmed Lassa fever patients.

“We urge residents of Omasi, other communities in Ayamelum and the state at large, to remain vigilant, cooperate with public health officials and avoid spreading unverified information,” Emembolu said.

The state government said the measures were aimed at identifying potential exposures early, preventing further transmission and ensuring that affected residents receive timely medical attention.