Fièvre de Lassa - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. What is Lassa Fever? Lassa Fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus. It is endemic in West Africa, particularly in countries like Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea.
- 2. Transmission The primary mode of transmission is through contact with the urine or feces of infected Mastomys rats. The virus can also be transmitted from person to person through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or through contaminated surfaces.
- 3. Symptoms The symptoms of Lassa Fever can be mild or severe and include fever, headache, muscle aches, sore throat, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding. In severe cases, the illness can lead to organ failure and death.
- 4. Diagnosis Diagnosis of Lassa Fever can be challenging as it presents similarly to other diseases like malaria and typhoid fever. Laboratory tests, including PCR and ELISA, are used to confirm the presence of the virus.
- 5. Treatment There is no specific treatment for Lassa Fever, but supportive care can help manage symptoms and improve outcomes. Antiviral medications like ribavirin may also be used in some cases.
- 6. Prevention Preventive measures include avoiding contact with rodents and their urine or feces, practicing good hygiene, and wearing personal protective equipment when caring for sick individuals. There is also a vaccine in development for Lassa Fever.
- 7. Outbreaks Outbreaks of Lassa Fever occur sporadically in West Africa, with the potential for widespread transmission in densely populated areas. The World Health Organization (WHO) monitors and responds to outbreaks to prevent further spread of the virus.
- 8. Risk factors People living in rural areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices are at higher risk of contracting Lassa Fever. Healthcare workers are also at increased risk due to their direct contact with infected patients.
- 9. Global impact While Lassa Fever primarily affects West Africa, the virus has the potential to spread globally through international travel. Cases have been reported in Europe, North America, and Asia in travelers returning from affected regions.
- 10. Public health response Public health authorities in endemic countries work to improve surveillance, laboratory capacity, and infection control measures to prevent and control outbreaks of Lassa Fever. International organizations like the WHO provide support and resources to help combat the disease.