Delta gets Lassa fever kits, drugs from NDDC

Concerned about the Lassa fever outbreak in the Niger Delta, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has donated protective kits and drugs to support the Delta State Government in its efforts to check the menace in the state.

Last week, there were reports of Lassa fever outbreak in Delta and Rivers states.

While the Commissioner for Health in Delta State, Dr. Mordi Ononye, confirmed two cases of the fever in the state, regretting that one of the victims died, the Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health in Rivers, Dr. Chinwe Tonye-Atata, confirmed that an indigene of the state also died of the scourge in Edo.

He added that four reports of the cases were received, two investigated and discarded while results were being awaited, and 57 persons currently under surveillance.

NDDC Acting Managing Director, Dr. Joi Nunieh, while donating the kits and drugs at the Ministry of Health in Asaba, said the commission was concerned about the outbreak in the region.

Nunieh, who was represented by the NDDC Director Health, Education and Social Services, Peter Edieya, said the commission was concerned about the well-being and healthcare of Niger Delta people.

She said: “The recent outbreak of Lassa fever compels our intervention because our people must be healthy to enjoy the development we bring. We must, therefore, continue to promote good community hygiene, discourage invasion of rodents into our homes, and introduce effective measures, which include storing grains and other foodstuffs in covered containers.”

The NDDC boss emphasised the need for public enlightenment campaigns to sensitise people about the scourge.