A confirmed case of Lassa fever has been reported at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) in Kano State.
The hospital’s Infection Prevention and Control Unit disclosed that out of two suspected cases recently admitted, one tested positive for the viral hemorrhagic illness.
Salisu Inuwa, spokesperson for the unit, stated that the confirmed case was detected on April 5 in Garun Mallam Local Government Area. He explained that the first suspected patient died before samples could be collected for testing. “Last week, we had two suspected cases of Lassa fever. Initially, both were classified as probable cases. Unfortunately, we were unable to obtain a sample from the first patient, who passed away before testing could be conducted. At the time of death, our doctors suspected either Lassa fever or another viral hemorrhagic fever,” Inuwa said.
The second patient, who walked into the hospital voluntarily, was tested and confirmed positive for Lassa fever. Following the confirmation, the hospital activated its emergency response system and began screening all individuals who had contact with the patient. Some hospital staff reported mild symptoms resembling malaria, a condition that shares early signs with Lassa fever. However, all individuals under observation remain stable and have not required hospitalization.
“As a precautionary measure, screening was initiated immediately. Fortunately, all individuals under observation are stable. None have been hospitalized and they continue their regular activities under close monitoring,” Inuwa added.
The Kano State Ministry of Health has been alerted to the situation and has deployed a contact-tracing team to Garun Mallam to monitor those who may have been exposed. “We immediately informed the state health authorities, who have taken up the matter and are actively conducting contact tracing in the affected community,” Inuwa confirmed.
He assured the public that the situation is being carefully managed by both hospital and state health officials, and urged residents to remain calm while staying alert. “The situation is under control. There is no need for panic,” he said.
Source: Linda Ikeji
