A nationwide preventive campaign has been launched by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to combat the ongoing outbreak of Lassa fever in several states of Nigeria.
The initiative, which is being implemented in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and other stakeholders, aims to curb the spread of the deadly disease through public awareness, education, and grassroots engagement.
The Director-General of the NOA, Mr. Lanre Isa-Onilu, highlighted the urgency of the campaign during a press briefing.
He expressed concerns about the rising cases of Lassa fever, particularly during the dry season, which has been identified as a period of heightened vulnerability to the disease.
“Lassa fever has claimed precious lives across the country, emphasizing the need for collective action. This campaign is a critical step in mobilizing Nigerians to adopt proactive measures against the disease,” Mr. Isa-Onilu remarked.
The campaign underscores the importance of hygiene and preventive practices. Key recommendations include regular handwashing with soap and water, storing food in rodent-proof containers, avoiding contact with infected persons or materials, and promptly reporting suspected cases to the nearest health facility.
According to data from the NCDC, over 1,025 confirmed cases of Lassa fever have been reported in 2024, resulting in 174 deaths. This follows 2023’s record of over 1,000 confirmed cases and 200 fatalities.
The majority of cases have been concentrated in Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states, identified as the primary hotspots. Additional high-burden states include Taraba, Benue, Ebonyi, and Kogi.
The Director-General emphasized that lack of awareness about Lassa fever’s transmission pathways, coupled with cultural misconceptions, has significantly hindered prevention efforts, particularly in rural areas.
Practices such as poor food storage and delayed case reporting contribute to higher mortality rates during outbreaks.
“Lassa fever is transmitted to humans primarily through contact with food or household items contaminated by the urine or feces of infected rats, or through direct contact with infected persons’ blood or bodily fluids,” Mr. Isa-Onilu explained.
The multi-mammate rat, known for its many-breasted anatomy, was identified as the primary carrier of the virus.
Recognizing prevention as the most effective strategy, the NOA has outlined several measures as part of the campaign. These include:
1. Press briefings to engage media professionals.
2. Roadshows to raise awareness in high-risk communities.
3. Town hall and stakeholders’ meetings with traditional, religious, and community leaders.
4. School outreach programs to educate children about disease prevention.
One such roadshow is scheduled to take place in Uyo, a region with a high incidence of Lassa fever. The program will include visits to schools, community gatherings, and market squares to disseminate critical information on preventive measures.
Call for Collective Action
Mr. Isa-Onilu called on Nigerians to take personal responsibility for preventing Lassa fever by adopting good hygiene practices and supporting public health initiatives. He also appealed to the media to amplify the campaign’s message to ensure widespread awareness.
“We appreciate the collaboration of the NCDC and other stakeholders in this effort. With small but consistent actions, we can change the narrative and safeguard lives in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President,” he concluded.
The NOA assured the public that efforts would be sustained beyond the dry season to build long-term resilience against Lassa fever and similar public health threats.
