Lassa Fever: Federal Govt Sends Experts To Ebonyi, Nassarawa

FOLLOWING the outbreak of Viral Hemorrhagic disease otherwise known as Lassa fever in Ebonyi and Nassarawa States, the Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, has disclosed his ministry's deployment of experts and drugs to the states, adding that the timely response by the federal government is to ensure that the outbreak is contained.He explained that the drugs are to facilitate treatment of the victims and prevent spread to other parts of the country.In a telephone interview, the minister told reporters in Abakaliki that his office would ensure that the lives of Nigerians are protected from the deadly disease. He noted that since 'the disease remains controllable and curable, Nigerians should not panic' because machineries have been set in motion to tackle the challenge.Explaining that the Federal Ministry of Health is working in partnership with its state counterparts to contain the outbreak, Prof. Chukwu said: 'We are aware of the outbreak and the Federal Ministry of Health has mobilised health experts to the affected states to ensure that the health challenge is nipped in the bud without delay'.The minister disclosed that medical experts have already been deployed to the affected states to 'carry out investigative, treatment and preventive measures' to ensure that those affected by the disease are given all necessary medical attention.Meanwhile, three children between the ages of seven months and two years have been confirmed dead, while about 40 others are receiving treatment following the outbreak of gastro enteritis in Ivo local government council of Ebonyi state last week.According to Ivo Council Chairman, Mr. Celestine Eze, who disclosed this to journalists, the council has so far mobilised health workers to commence sensitisation campaigns with a view to enlightening the people on how to adopt proper personal hygiene.He said that he has approved money for immediate procurement of drugs for the patients.
Click here to read full news..