The Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu led Abia state government has confirmed the outbreak of lassa fever in some parts of the state. A statement by Chief Egbulefu Eze Sony, on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, confirmed the development.

According to the statement, the index patient has been identified and Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) drugs administered to direct

contacts of the index patient. A Rapid Response Team is already on ground to ensure a 24 hours emergency operation for the next 21 days”, the statement added. To this end, Abians are advised to get rid of rodents within their environment, wash their hands regularly, keep their environment clean, avoid soaking and drinking of raw garri, warm their food before eating and report to the hospitals and Primary Health Care Centres in case of any emergency. The Commissioner, however, said the outbreak of the epidermic disease has so far been contained, adding that there was no cause for alarm. He, therefore, thanked the Governor of the state, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu for his “timely support and intervention in ensuring that everything is under control.”