Healthcare workers are being urged by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to uphold a high level of suspicion and adhere to standard precautionary measures consistently while carrying out their duties.
In a statement released by Dr. Shuaibu Joga Joga, the Public Relations Officer, the NMA emphasized the importance of these precautionary measures due to a suspected outbreak of Lassa fever at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna.
Tragically, the Association confirmed the deaths of a nurse, a pharmacist, a paramedic, and a patient in Kaduna, all occurring within 48 to 72 hours subsequent to contact with a patient displaying febrile symptoms.
Joga mentioned that six samples from suspected cases have been collected and are currently awaiting confirmation, while contact tracing efforts are being intensified by the State Epidemiologist and the team.
The statement emphasized, “It is crucial for the government, hospital managements, and owners of private health facilities in the State to ensure the availability and proper use of PPEs (Personal Protective Equipments) for all healthcare workers to minimize the risk of transmission.”
NMA will persist in raising awareness among its members and the public regarding preventive measures to hinder the further spread of the disease within Kaduna State.