One confirmed dead as Cross River State records Lassa Fever outbreak

One person has died as a result of a Lassa virus epidemic in the Ejah Community in Osupong Ward 1, Obubra Local Government Area, Cross River State.

Citizens were notified of the epidemic in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Egbe Ayuk. An inquiry into the dead determined that the cause of death was Lassa fever.

The statement reads: “This is to notify the public of Lassa fever outbreak in Ejah Community of Osupong Ward 1, Obubra LGA.

“Investigation has been concluded today (Wednesday), and details of the deceased, a resident of Obubra, gotten from Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebony State—confirmed he died of Lassa fever.

“We have consequently activated the Cross River State Emergency Operation Centre.

“The State Rapid Response Team will be going to Obubra on Thursday to join the LGA team to ensure: contact tracing, line listing, and decontamination of affected premises.

“Also, awareness creation and risk communication, as well as mobilisation of Lassa fever commodities, consumables, and personal protective equipment to General Hospital Obubra and other locations, have been activated,” Ayuk stated.