Lassa Fever: NCDC Response Team, Visits FMC Jalingo
By Lynn Adda
Following the recent outbreak of Lassa Fever in Taraba State, a response team from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control, NCDC has visited the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo.
Echo Express gathered that the team, which is led by Dr Ali Wada Aliyu is aimed at strengthening efforts in managing the ongoing Lassa Fever in Taraba State.
Speaking at a forum attended by the Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, Dr Aisha Shehu Adamu and other management staff, Dr. Aliyu stressed that the team’s mission was to provide support for the Lassa Fever response, assess the challenges affecting case management, and gather firsthand data to chart a path forward.
He commended the leadership of FMC Jalingo for their dedication to managing Lassa Fever cases and acknowledged the significant efforts made so far.
In his presentation, the Head of the Clinical Department at FMC Jalingo, Dr. Kuni Joseph, revealed an alarming statistics, saying with over 100 suspected cases reported, nearly 70% were confirmed, and more than 20 fatalities recorded recently.
Dr. Kuni emphasized that the situation is unprecedented and highlighted key challenges facing the center, including insufficient manpower, lack of basic care support, inadequate infrastructure, and poor sensitization on the disease.
He expressed concern that some patients, due to misinformation, are avoiding treatment, while others refuse safe burial protocols, further complicating case management.
The Medical Director of FMC Jalingo, Dr. Aisha Shehu Adamu, reiterated Dr. Kuni’s concerns and appealed to the Taraba State Government, NCDC, and WHO for urgent support.
She stressed the need for increased collaboration among stakeholders to address the critical gaps hindering the fight against Lassa Fever.
In response, Dr. Aliyu appreciated the management of FMC Jalingo for their tireless efforts in managing Lassa Fever cases.
He assured the team that the NCDC would liaise with the state government to address the highlighted challenges. He also encouraged FMC Jalingo to continue identifying risk factors and intensify efforts in managing the outbreak.
Dr. Aliyu further pledged ongoing cooperation between the NCDC and FMC Jalingo to overcome the health crisis.
This visit underscores the importance of collective action and synergy in combating public health emergencies such as Lassa Fever.
In the meantime, the Medical Director of the FMC Jalingo, Dr Aisha Shehu Adamu restated that the Centre remains committed to ensuring the safety and health of the people of Taraba State.
