Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, the Plateau State Commissioner for Health, has verified two Lassa virus cases and two related deaths in the state.  

The verified cases were found in the communities of Unguwan Gar and Kwalla in the state's Qua'an Pan Local Government Area, Baamlong revealed on Tuesday in Jos.

“We have recorded two confirmed cases of Lassa fever in Plateau State, and unfortunately, both cases resulted in fatalities,” the commissioner said.

He clarified that the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Teaching Hospital in Bauchi State was actively treating the afflicted individuals.

“Both patients are presently on admission at ATBU Teaching Hospital in Bauchi, where they are undergoing treatment,” Baamlong said.

In accordance with national and international public health norms, the commissioner stated that 69 individuals who had interacted with the patients had been identified and were under observation.

“So far, 69 contacts have been line-listed and are being closely monitored in accordance with established public health guidelines,” he said.

Baamlong claims that in order to guarantee a coordinated and multi-sectoral response, the Plateau State Ministry of Health has activated an Incident Management System (IMS).

Source