More Lassa Fever in Nigeria

Health authorities in Ondo State have registered 353 people infected with Lassa Fever virus. Of these, 12 have died from their infections.

Advice

The risk for the general traveller is low. All the reported cases have occurred sporadically, often in multiple locations. This infection is transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items that are contaminated with rodent excreta or through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person. Travellers should avoid contact with rats, especially their urine and faeces. Travellers should also practice careful personal hygiene by washing their hands frequently especially when caring for sick patients who might have this infection. Although most infections are mild, Lassa fever can be a severe viral haemorrhagic illness in 1 out of every 5 infected people.