The Mano River Union Lassa Fever Network is an initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Office of United States Foreign Disaster Assistance. This group supports the development of national prevention strategies, as well as the enhancement of laboratory diagnostics for Lassa fever. It also provides training on clinical management, environmental control, and laboratory diagnosis. This study highlights the importance of proper environmental management and sanitation in preventing the transmission of Lassa fever.
Unlike most diseases
Lassa fever has a low overall fatality rate, which rises to about 15% in more severe cases. The incidence of death is not high in developed countries, but it can be higher in regions with endemic populations, such as West Africa. Although it is still not entirely preventable, the best way to prevent the disease and to protect your family is to practice good hygiene. It is especially important to store food in rodent-proof containers, dispose of garbage outside the house, and keep cats. In areas with endemic infection, Mastomys are abundant, making them impossible to completely remove from the environment. Consequently, it is important to avoid contact with blood and body fluids while caring for the sick.
Epidemic
The virus is transmitted from rodents to humans and has an overall mortality rate of about 1%, although the rate can vary depending on the epidemic. One recent outbreak in Nigeria saw a case fatality rate of almost 20%. The disease is particularly dangerous for pregnant women. People who are pregnant are particularly vulnerable to the symptoms. While the disease itself is not usually lethal, it can lead to complications such as cerebral palsy. If you are infected with Lassa fever, you should seek medical attention immediately.
