RIVERS State Governor Nyesom Wike has approved series of sensitisation programmes across the state to stem the spread of Lassa Fever in the state.

Sequel to this, medical professionals in health facilities across the state had begun to enlighten workers on how to protect residents against the disease.

Speaking during a sensitisation programme yesterday, Chief Medical Director in charge of Government House Clinic, Dr. Miller Finebone Oruene said regular hygiene, particularly washing of hands can help reduce the risk of getting infected by the viral disease called Lassa Fever.

She said: “Clean your house, clean your environment, avoid contact with sick persons with cases of bleeding and avoid rats.”
Oruene, while noting that the primary transmission of the Lassa virus from its host to humans can be prevented by avoiding contact with Mastomys Rodents, explained that putting food away in rodent-proof containers and keeping the home clean will help to discourage them from entering homes.

She further advised Rivers people to be wary of the signs and symptoms of Lassa Fever which include back pain, chest pain, conjunctivitis (redness of the eye), cough, diarrhea, fac§ial swelling, fever, mucosal bleeding, proteinuria, sore throat and vomiting.

Also speaking at the event, Senior Medical Officer in charge of Government House, Dr. Samuel Wilson, advised the people of the state to make personal hygiene a priority.