Lassa Fever
Lassa fever is an acute viral illness that occurs in West Africa. The virus, a member of the virus family Arenaviridae, and is zootomic, or animal-borne. Rodents shed the virus in urine and droppings. Therefore, the virus can be transmitted through direct contact with these materials, through touching objects or eating food contaminated with these materials, or through cuts or sores.
Manifestation: Symptoms of Lassa fever typically occur 1—3 weeks after the patient comes into contact with the virus. These include:
- Fever
- Pain behind the chest wall
- Sore throat
- Back pain
- Cough
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Rash
After four weeks occur:
- Bleeding
- Ascites
- Shock
- Death in 50 % of the patients
Diagnosis and treatment: The virus is found in blood and urine. Specific treatment is not available.
Prevent Lassa fever:
- Avoid contact with rodents.
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