Lassa Fever

What is Lassa Fever?

Lassa fever is an acute viral disease of rodent origin. It is transmitted to humans through contact with food and objects contaminated with rodent urine or feces. The virus is called Lassa after the first case was encountered in Lassa, Nigeria. According to sources, the first case occurred in 1969. Although Lassa fever is known to be endemic in West African countries such as Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Benin, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Togo and Nigeria, it is also thought to exist in other West African countries.

Diagnosis of the disease is important for early treatment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) data, 80% of people exposed to Lassa virus do not have any symptoms. In addition, the virus seriously affects various organs such as the liver, spleen and kidney in 1 out of every 5 infections.

Where and when was Lassa fever first seen?

Lassa virus was discovered in 1969 after the death of two nurses working in Lassa, Nigeria.

How Is Lassa Fever Transmitted?

Lassa fever is a disease transmitted from animals to humans. It is a rodent known as Mastomys natalensis that carries the Lassa virus. Their frequent reproduction and easy settlement in living areas affect the rate of spread of the virus. Lassa virus is transmitted to humans through respiration and food. In addition, consuming these animals also causes the transmission of the disease.
Person-to-person transmission of the disease is also possible. Especially in cases where the necessary hygiene is not provided in health care equipment, the risk of transmission is high.

How Long Is the Incubation Period of Lassa Fever?

The incubation period of the disease varies between 6-21 days.

What Are the Symptoms of Lassa Fever?

Lassa virus usually presents with mild symptoms such as fever and headache. However, some people also experience significant symptoms such as bleeding and difficulty breathing. If we list the symptoms of the disease as follows:

• slight fever
• Weakness
• Headache

Lassa fever produces more severe symptoms in about 20% of cases.

• Bleeding in places such as the gums, eyes, or nose
• difficulty breathing
• severe vomiting
• facial swelling
• Pain in the chest, back and abdomen

How Is Lassa Fever Diagnosed?

In the early stage of Lassa fever, the disease is diagnosed with a swab taken from the person. Blood test also has an important place in the diagnosis of the disease.

How Is Lassa Fever Treated? Is There a Vaccine for Lassa Fever?

An antiviral drug is given for treatment. There is no vaccine yet for the treatment of Lassa fever.

Who is at Risk for Lassa Fever?

Visitors to countries in West Africa have a higher incidence of the disease than people living in countries outside the continent. If you are going to these countries, you can reduce the risk of transmission by following the safety precautions below. 

•  Storing food in rodent-proof containers
•  Paying attention to the cleanliness of the accommodation 
•  Avoiding contact with rodents