Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease caused by the Lassa virus. This infection belongs to the Arenaviridae family and primarily affects West Africa. Each year, the disease leads to an estimated 100,000 to 300,000 cases and about 5,000 deaths. Countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Mali, and Togo face significant health threats from this virus.
How Lassa Fever Spreads
The primary way people catch Lassa fever is through food or items contaminated with the urine and feces of Mastomys natalensis rats. Humans contract the virus by touching food or surfaces that these rodents have contaminated. In healthcare settings, the virus can spread from infected patients to healthcare workers or other patients. This makes strict infection control essential.
Symptoms of Lassa Fever
Symptoms of Lassa fever usually develop gradually. Early signs include fever, fatigue, and general weakness. These may progress to headaches, sore throats, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, complications can include bleeding, respiratory distress, fluid buildup in the body, low blood pressure, and organ failure. Pregnant women face higher risks, with increased mortality rates.
Statistics show that 80% of infected individuals experience mild or no symptoms. However, one in five cases can lead to severe illness, damaging vital organs like the liver, spleen, and kidneys. About 25% of survivors may suffer permanent hearing loss.
Treatment and Prevention of Lassa Fever
Ribavirin is one of the most effective treatments for Lassa fever. This antiviral drug works best when given early. Supportive care, including fluid replacement and symptom management, also increases survival rates.
To prevent the spread of the virus, store food in sealed containers to keep rodents away. Travelers to endemic regions should avoid contact with Mastomys rats. Healthcare workers must follow protective measures when treating patients to reduce the risk of transmission.
Raising Awareness About Lassa Fever
Given its high transmissibility and severe complications, raising awareness is crucial. Educating healthcare institutions and communities in at-risk areas helps prevent the spread of the disease and reduce mortality rates. The World Health Organization (WHO) collaborates with countries in West Africa to control Lassa fever’s spread. WHO leads public information campaigns, trains healthcare workers, and provides essential diagnostic tools. Ongoing efforts aim to develop more effective treatments and vaccines.
