The
Federal Government has reassured Nigerians that they are commited in winning
the battle against Lassa fever.
The
Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, gave the assurance on Wednesday
while addressing State House correspondents.
The
Minister noted that the country could win the battle against Lassa fever the
same way it won against Ebola because the latter was a single importation to
Nigeria, while the former was endemic in the country.
"We
are committed to signing the obituary of the Lassa fever this year", the
minister said.
"We
cannot win the battle against Lassa fever the same way we won the one against Ebola.
Ebola happened to be a single importation to Nigeria. Lassa fever is endemic in
Nigeria. In 2012, we had upsurge in 26 states. So, it is there, but I can
assure you that with what we put in place this year, we will sign it off",
he said. The minister also stated that the current outbreak of Lassa fever was
not resurgence as it had been endemic in the country over the years.
"And
as I said in numerous occasions, we have these outbreaks. In 2012, we had the
highest. We had 1, 700 cases and that declined. Last year, we had 441 cases.
And what has happened is that for the first time in the history of the country,
we are being transparent and open, and we are telling the entire world what the
situation is. And that is what is different. We are also concerned.”
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