Taraba State Reports Lassa Fever Outbreak

Taraba State Reports Lassa Fever Outbreak

Taraba State has confirmed an outbreak of the viral hemorrhagic fever known as Lassa Fever, according to Dr. Gbangsheya Buma, the State Commissioner for Health…..READ ALSO Rivers State Alert: Lassa Fever Outbreak Confirmed; Health Authorities Take Swift Action

At the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Jalingo, nine suspected cases have been registered, with eight individuals testing positive for the disease, as revealed by the commissioner.

Assuring residents, Dr. Buma stated that the state’s Ministry of Health is actively monitoring the situation and is fully prepared to address any potential challenges.

He further stated, “This is not unexpected as it is the season for Lassa fever, and we have made necessary preparations. While the outbreak may be daunting, we have received support from the NCDC, who have dispatched personnel to provide technical assistance to help contain the spread of the disease.”

“We are effectively managing the situation. We have collaborated with FMC to offer free treatment to Lassa fever patients. Eight out of the nine suspected cases sampled at FMC Jalingo have been confirmed positive for Lassa fever.”

Joseph Kuni, the acting Head of Clinical Services at FMC Jalingo, also confirmed the outbreak, mentioning that one of the hospital staff, a medical doctor, was affected but has since been treated and discharged.