Health Expert Raises The Alarm Over Lassa Fever Surge In Bauchi

Health professional has warned of a fresh wave of Lassa fever infections in some parts of Bauchi State and the country at large.

In a chat with our correspondent, the resident doctor at the Community Medicine Department at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Dr Zainab Mu’azu, said Lassa fever’s primary carriers are rodents, particularly the widely present multimamate rat.

She expressed concern that many households unknowingly bring the rodents into their homes while transporting grains and other food items from farms and markets, creating an easy pathway for the virus to spread.

Describing Lassa fever as “highly contagious,”  Zainab said infection could occur through direct contact with contaminated blood or bodily fluids, touching infected surfaces, sexual transmission, or even through breast milk.

To her, prevention remains simple but powerful: maintaining clean surroundings, storing food in sealed containers, disposing of waste properly, and practicing regular handwashing can significantly cut down infection risks.

Dr. Zainab further noted that Lassa fever often masquerades as malaria, presenting symptoms such as fever, sore throat, headaches, and muscle pain, making early detection a major challenge.

She added that symptoms may take as long as 21 days to manifest, and delays in seeking treatment can result in severe, sometimes fatal complications.

Our correspondent reports that the medical expert expressed grave concern over the rising national toll, revealing that more than 200 deaths have already been recorded across Nigeria.

She described the situation as “alarming” and urged Bauchi residents to remain vigilant, prioritize hygiene, and seek immediate medical care at the first sign of illness.