Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
The Kano State Centre for Disease Control (KNCDC) has issued a public health advisory warning of an increased risk of Lassa Fever transmission across the country, particularly during the October to May period.
According to Dr. Muhammad Adamu Abbas, Director General of the KNCDC, the advisory follows a national alert from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), which predicts a possible rise in cases during the dry season.
Dr. Abbas highlighted that Kano ecological and environmental conditions make it susceptible to Lassa Fever outbreaks. He urged residents to maintain strict hygiene practices and follow preventive measures to limit the spread of the disease.
The advisory emphasizes the importance of Keeping the environment clean, Storing food in tightly covered containers and Sealing holes and entry points to prevent rodent access
Residents experiencing persistent fever or related symptoms are advised to visit the nearest health facility promptly, rather than resorting to self medication.
As a proactive step, the Kano State Government has activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) for Lassa Fever response. The KNCDC has also begun distributing essential supplies, including personal protective equipment PPE, antiviral medications, and training for healthcare workers on infection prevention and case management.
Community sensitization campaigns and rodent control efforts are underway in high risk local government areas as part of the state’s integrated ‘One Health’ strategy, which involves collaboration across health, environmental, and agricultural sectors.
The KNCDC also urged the public to report suspected cases through official surveillance channels to ensure timely response.
Dr. Abbas assured that Lassa Fever is both preventable and treatable if detected early. “Together, we can keep Kano State free from Lassa Fever this season,” he stated.
Lassa Fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted through contact with food, water, or household items contaminated by the urine or feces of infected rodents. Human-to-human transmission can also occur via contact with an infected person’s blood or bodily fluids.
Common symptoms include persistent fever, sore throat, chest or abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and unexplained bleeding. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve survival rates, health officials say.