As efforts intensify to contain the spread of Lassa fever which has already claimed 14 health personnel, the Benue State Government says it will consider as an emergency the very important need to protect health workers who are in the frontline as it poses a great threat to the health care system in the State and beyond.
State Governor Hyacinth Alia made the declaration when he received a delegation from the National Center for Disease Control NCDC, World Health Organisation WHO and other international partners at the Government House Makurdi.
Recent statistics by the NCDC places Benue State as the second-most affected by Lassa fever in Nigeria drawing attention from national and international health organisations.
Most recently officials from NCDC, WHO, Unicef, and other partners visited the State for a first hand assessment of the situation.
Leading the delegation, NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, says besides a first-hand assessment of the outbreak, the team is in the State to engage the government on urgent measures needed to curb the spread.
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WHO Country Representative, Dr. Pavel Ursu, was particularly concerned about health workers, warning that the loss of medical personnel could weaken the response to the outbreak.
Unicef Health Manager, Fatima Gohar, appeals to the state government to introduce free treatment for Lassa Fever patients, particularly for vulnerable groups such as internally displaced persons, IDPs.
Responding, Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by the Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, declared stronger protection for healthcare workers.
Sufficiently containing the outbreak entails stronger surveillance, rapid response, and sustained support.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
