Health authorities raise the alarm as infections spread across six LGAs, urging residents to stay vigilant and report symptoms early.
Plateau State has confirmed six cases of Lassa fever, with four deaths recorded, including a medical doctor. The Commissioner for Health, Dr Nicholas Baamlong, disclosed this at a press briefing in Jos on Friday.
The cases were reported in Jos South, Jos North, Qua’an Pan, Wase, Shendam and Mangu LGAs. One of the surviving patients is also a doctor who reportedly contracted the virus while treating an infected patient.
Baamlong said the affected persons are currently receiving treatment, while the ministry has stepped up contact tracing, surveillance and public health response in line with national and international guidelines.
He explained that Lassa fever is spread through contact with rats, contaminated food or water, or direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person. Unsafe burial practices and caring for patients without protection also increase the risk.
Common symptoms include persistent fever not responding to malaria treatment, headaches, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea and, in severe cases, bleeding.
The commissioner urged residents to keep their environment clean, store food in rodent-proof containers, cover water properly, and seek medical help immediately if symptoms appear. He also warned health workers to strictly observe infection prevention and control measures.
Baamlong assured that the state has supplied drugs and protective equipment and has intensified public awareness campaigns to curb further spread.
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