Akeredolu cries out over Lassa outbreak in Ondo State

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has cried out over Lassa outbreak in Ondo State which has claimed 15 lives with 28 hospitalized.

Confirming the outbreak, the state's commissioner of health, Dr. Wahab Adegbenro, said measures are being put in place to contain it.

“I am currently at the governor’s office and we are having a meeting. That is (Lassa fever outbreak) what we trying to address now. We are working on the report available and the next line of action. That is why I am in the governor’s office.

“There will be pronouncement after the meeting.”

Governor Akeredolu who also confirmed the outbreak said the disease has been claiming lives since the beginning of the new year.

Akeredolu said:

“This is a serious infectious disease that has been with us for some years. It is a disease that is caused by an organism and spread to man by rats. This outbreak has been occurring fairly regularly over many decades, unfortunately in the past few years it has increased in magnitude. Sadly, within the few weeks of this year, several scores have been affected and some had died from the disease.

“We commiserate with families who have lost loved ones, and wish those on treatment speedy recovery.

“Our administration has taken steps to curtail this outbreak, including inaugurating a special multi-sectoral committee to address the outbreak; embarking on aggressive waste management campaign, provision of adequate human, financial and material resources to treat patients and follow up care of contacts and relatives, establishing and equipping the State Infectious Disease Hospital, creating awareness and public enlightenment in affected communities.

“Despite these, the state still finds itself at the throes of another serious outbreak. One important reason for this is the fact that some of our citizens still indulge in habits that continue to encourage its spread.

"Unless these habits and practices are jettisoned, it will be very difficult for us to overcome the challenge that Lassa fever poses.

“This disease is treatable. However, it is important for those affected to come early to hospitals, where experts can make correct diagnosis and treatment can start early.

“The government is determined that the yearly outbreak stops and to achieve this, the government has already taken certain important steps.

“We count on the support of our traditional and religious leaders in achieving this goal.”