The Anambra State Government has stepped up efforts to contain the spread of Lassa fever after confirming a case linked to Omasi community in Ayamelum Local Government Area.

The affected patient is receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (FETHA), in Ebonyi State, according to the state government.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, disclosed this on Monday during an emergency stakeholders’ meeting in Awka, where health officials and partners discussed measures to prevent further transmission.

Obidike said the state had intensified disease surveillance and public awareness, while activating its Incident Management System to coordinate the response.

As part of the containment efforts, health officials are expected to visit the affected household in Omasi, identify people who had contact with the patient and classify them according to their level of exposure for appropriate monitoring.

The response involves health partners, including the World Health Organisation and Médecins Sans Frontières, who are supporting efforts to strengthen preparedness and limit the risk of further infections.

The state government urged residents experiencing persistent fever or malaria-like symptoms that do not improve with appropriate treatment to seek medical attention promptly.

It also cautioned against relying solely on self-medication, stressing that early diagnosis and proper medical care are important in managing the disease.

The state epidemiologist, Chuma Emembolu, advised residents to maintain proper sanitation, keep food covered and store it in rodent-proof containers to prevent contamination.

He also warned against contact with the blood and other body fluids of suspected or confirmed Lassa fever patients, urging residents to follow public health guidance.

The government called on residents of Omasi, other communities in Ayamelum and the wider state to remain vigilant, cooperate with health officials and avoid spreading unverified information as surveillance and monitoring efforts continue.