A team of experts from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has arrived in Ondo State to address the escalating Lassa fever cases in the region.
During a meeting with state government officials, Dr. Olubunmi Olopha, the leader of the NCDC team, explained that the deployment was aimed at supporting the state in combating the outbreak effectively.
“Out of approximately 200 suspected cases reported in the state, less than 90 have been confirmed,” Olopha disclosed, emphasizing the need for a coordinated response between the NCDC and the state government to curb the spread of the disease.
She urged healthcare providers to promptly refer suspected cases to appropriate facilities to reduce fatalities caused by delayed interventions.
The Head of Service in Ondo State, Bayo Philip, who led the state government team, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating Lassa fever and other diseases affecting the state.
Philip called on key agencies, including the Ministries of Health, Agriculture, and Environment, to implement proactive measures to prevent the annual resurgence of Lassa fever.
“The collaboration of all stakeholders is crucial,” Philip said, encouraging private healthcare practitioners, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to support the campaign by promoting hygienic food handling practices among residents.
The government assured the public of its determination to strengthen surveillance, prevention, and response mechanisms to protect the health of the state’s residents.
