The Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, has confirmed the death of a health practitioner as a result of Lassa Fever in Ogun State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, Mrs. Boade Akinola, Director, Media and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Health, said that Prof. Adewole has mandated the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to release a detailed brief as soon as it concludes it investigations.

He called on members of the public to be calm, and seek care in health care facilities. “Anybody with symptoms which include fever, headaches, vomiting, should report immediately at the nearest medical facility.

“Healthcare professionals are reminded to test before treating for suspected malaria, and if the test is negative for malaria, to maintain a high index of suspicion for Lassa Fever. Lassa Fever is treatable when detected early,” the statement said.

The Minister also directed medical personnel to report cases of suspected Lassa Fever immediately to the state Epidemiologist, who has been provided with the commodities, by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to respond to cases.

He also enjoined health workers to take the necessary precaution in treating patients, while commiserating with the Nigerian Association of Nurses and Midwives on the death of their member.

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