From Femi Oyelola, Yusuf Idris Kaduna
Kaduna State government has confirmed a case of Lassa fever in Chukun Local Government Area but said that the patient is being treated at the designated Infectious Disease Control Centre.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Commissioner of Health, Dr Amina Mohammed-Baloni and made available to the media in kaduna yesterday.
The statement added that tests have confirmed that the patient is a 36-year-old male.
The commissioner has assured that the Ministry of Health has supplied the ‘’infectious diseases control centre with the necessary commodities and our health personnel are ready to manage any cases that may arise.”
‘’The epidemiology unit is monitoring the situation closely, and all health facilities are on alert for prompt referral of suspected cases,’’ Dr Mohammed-Baloni further assured.
The commissioner also reiterated the ministry’s earlier appeal to the public ‘’to maintain the highest standard of individual hygiene and to report any suspected cases promptly to the nearest health facility.’’
“We wish to appeal to members of the public to maintain the highest standards of personal hygiene, keep food in proper storage and to remain vigilant to report suspected cases to the relevant authorities.
“Suspected cases should be reported to the State Epidemiology unit on 08036045755 or 08027396344 or contact the nearest Local Government Health Authority official,’’ Dr Mohammed-Baloni added.
The statement further stated that all Kaduna State Government health facilities are on alert to look out for cases of the disease.
“Let us all work together to keep our state safe and make early reports to enable prompt treatment for patients who contact this highly infectious disease,’’ the commissioner appealed.
Mainwhile the management of Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital has advised the general public and patient relatives that in view of the recent emergence of LASSA FEVER, to henceforth restrict “entrance of people not in need of medical attention through its various gates.
“We solicit for your support and cooperation in this regards please. This is for the benefit of all.”
