The cases were reported in the Unguwan Gar and Kwalla communities in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area, according to Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, the state Commissioner for Health. He disclosed that two patients who contracted the virus are currently receiving treatment at the ATBU Teaching Hospital in Bauchi State. Meanwhile, 69 individuals identified as contacts of the patients are being closely monitored under national and international public health protocols.
To contain the outbreak, the state government has activated an incident management system aimed at coordinating a comprehensive, multi-sectoral response. The state epidemiologist has been appointed as the Incident Manager for Lassa fever, tasked with overseeing surveillance, case management, and risk communication.
“The incident manager will also lead public awareness campaigns through media engagement and build capacity among health workers to prevent further spread,” Baamlong said.
Lassa fever, a viral disease primarily transmitted through contact with infected rats or bodily fluids of an infected person, can also spread via contaminated food, unsafe burial practices, and close care without proper protection. Symptoms include persistent fever unresponsive to malaria treatment, headaches, body weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, bleeding from the mouth or nose.
The commissioner urged residents to maintain clean surroundings, store food in covered containers, consume only properly cooked meals, and report any persistent fever to nearby health facilities. He specifically called on residents of Qua’an Pan and neighboring communities to remain vigilant and practice good hygiene.
Dr. Baamlong reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health and appealed to partners to support efforts to control the outbreak.