What is Lassa fever?

Lassa Fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic fever.
Lassa virus is the causative virus.
The virus is similar to Ebola virus.
The infection is spread by rats.
Virus was discovered in Lassa town in Bornu state (1969).
Incubation period is 1-3weeks.
Mortality rate is about 43.2% in present infection.
Early presentation & prompt diagnosis enhances the chances of survival
Outbreak of Lassa fever has spread to 10 states already: Bauchi, Nassarawa, Niger, Taraba, Kano, Plateau, Gombe, Rivers, Edo & Oyo
First case was reported six weeks ago.
Endemic in some parts of Nigeria.
80% of cases do not display symptoms
Currently, about there is about 85 suspected cases with 40 deaths.
In the past, it affected other African countries like Liberia, Sierra Leone, and central African Republic.
Early Symptoms

Fever (Chills)
Headache
Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Sore throat
Back/joints ache


Late Symptoms:



Bleeding from the eyes, ears, nose, mouth & rectum
Eye Swelling
Genital Swelling
Body rashes which contains blood...... http://tiponhealth.com/lassa-fever-awareness-in-nigeria-2/