The Ministry of Health has said a young girl in Oke Owa community, Ifelodun local government area of Kwara state has been diagnosed of Yellow fever.

Minister of Health, Isaac Adewole disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

Why it matters:

Nigeria has not experienced any outbreak or case of Yellow fever for a while. The disease is transmitted by infected aedes mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, headache, jaundice, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting and fatigue.

Bleeding may also occur from the mouth, nose, eyes or stomach.

What the statement said:

The statement added that  the case was confirmed on Tuesday, September 12, after tests were carried out at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital.

“Following the confirmation of the case, the state epidemiology team has begun investigation in the affected area and surrounding communities. A joint team from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, National Primary Health Care Development Agency and the World Health Organisation Country Office has been deployed to support the state in carrying out a detailed investigation and risk analysis,” the statement read.

“An outbreak control team has also been constituted to ensure rapid and coordinated decision-making. A vaccination campaign is already being planned in the affected area to prevent further spread.”

Prevention method:

• A single does of vaccination should be given every 9 months.
• Other methods of prevention include using insect repellent, sleeping under a long-lasting insecticide treated net, ensuring proper sanitation and getting rid of stagnant water or breeding space for mosquitoes.

Azeez