LASSA FEVER OUTBREAK: FMC Umuahia Confirms Death of One of its Medical Doctors

The Management of Federal Medical Centre Umuahia, Abia State has confirmed the death of one of its medical doctors as a result of the outbreak of Lassa Fever in the State.

Addressing newsmen in Umuahia, the Chief Medical Director of the Centre, DrAbali Chukwu said the victim before her death was admitted at the hospital during which a few members of staff came in contact with her in the course of management.

He noted that enhanced surveillance, contact tracing and commencement of prophylaxis in high risk contacts were ongoing.

The Chief Medical Director pointed out that the management of the centre had constituted relevant Committees to review and strengthen the protocol for handling the emergency.

 Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr John Ahukanna said that the Ministry was working with the authorities of Federal Medical Centre Umuahia to ensure full containment of the disease.

DrAhukanna described the incident as very unfortunate, noting that the State had risen to the challenge of checkmating further spread of the disease.

 The Commissioner explained that the State had made available, large quantities of drugs for the treatment of the disease.

He advised people to maintain clean environment and report all suspected cases to the nearest medical facility in the State.

LAWRENCE NWOKEDI