by Dolapo Adelana

A case of Lassa fever was confirmed in Angwan Kura Community, in the old market area of  Lokoja, the state capital Kogi on Sunday confirmed.

The patient, male and resident of the community reported at the Accident and Emergency Unit of the Federal Medical Centre Lokoja, with signs and symptoms suggestive of haemorrhagic fever.

The Commissioner of Health in the state, Saka Audu said state epidemiologists immediately responded by sending the patient’s blood sample to the designated Laboratory at Federal Specialist Hospital Irrua, Edo State for analysis, which came back positive for Lassa fever.

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The commissioner said the patient was eventually transferred to Federal Specialist Hospital Irrua, Edo State for optimal care.

The State Rapid Response Team has begun tracing contacts of the male and started preventive treatment for health workers he came in contact with before his transfer to Irrua.

“All these have been concluded as all those who have had contact with the patient are currently being closely monitored,” said Audu.

“It is important to note that it was discovered that the patient had travelled to Ilorin, Kwara State where he had stayed for two weeks, he only developed symptoms of haemorrhagic fever two days after his return.

“We are, therefore, uncertain whether he contracted the virus in Ilorin or here in Lokoja.

“Any suspected case of Lassa Fever or anyone with useful information related to this subject matter should call this designated 08030607102’’.