Public health importance of lassa fever epidemiology, clinical features and current management review of literature

Abstract

The public health importance of Lassa fever can not be over emphasized if one considers the high infectivity and mortality rates associated with the disease. This study dealt extensively on the epidemiology, clinical features and current management of Lassa fever through literature review. The aim of this study is to sensitise the public on what it needs to know on Lassa fever as well as updating the knowledge of health workers on current management of the disease and important precautive measures to take when handling a patient with Lassa fever. Strict barrier nursing, isolation, use of protective devices are important preventive measures when managing a patient with Lassa fever infection. As Lassa fever may have a long incubation period (Up to 20 days), it is possible that travellers from endemic areas may be incubating the disease. However, one case of Lassa fever entering a non-endemic area should not cause fear of an epidemic as long as correct infection control procedures are followed. (Af. J. of Clinical and Experimental Microbiology: 2002 3(1): 33-37)