Lassa fever: According to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, a resident of eastern Iowa in the United States recently traveled to West Africa and died after contracting Lassa fever. State officials confirmed that the preliminary test result was positive and that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working to verify the diagnosis. Lassa fever is a disease that belongs to the same category of hemorrhagic fevers as Ebola virus and is mainly spread through contact with rodents and, under limited conditions, human-to-human contact.
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What is Lassa fever?
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease caused by the Lassa virus, found primarily in West Africa. The disease, named after the Nigerian town where it was first discovered in 1969, is often spread through contact with food or household items contaminated with the urine or feces of infected rodents, particularly Mastomys rats. Lassa fever is endemic in countries such as Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea, but can also occur in other parts of West Africa.
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How does it spread?
The virus is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Most cases are caused by contact with infected rodent feces. In rare cases, it can be spread from person to person through direct contact with body fluids, especially in healthcare settings without adequate infection control. This highlights the importance of preventive measures in high-risk areas.
When do symptoms appear?
Typically, people are not contagious until symptoms appear, and the infection cannot be spread through casual contact such as hugging, shaking hands, or sitting near an infected person. Symptoms mainly appear within one to three weeks after exposure.
What are the symptoms of Lassa fever?
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The incubation period for Lassa fever ranges from 6 to 21 days, and symptoms vary widely. About 80% of cases are asymptomatic or mild, but others develop severe, life-threatening symptoms. Early symptoms include:
- fever
- General malaise
- Headache
- sore throat
- muscle and chest pain
- nausea and vomiting
If left untreated, symptoms can develop into more serious problems, such as:
- stomach ache
- respiratory distress
- facial swelling
- Fluid in the lungs
- Bleeding from the mouth, nose, or gastrointestinal tract
- neurological problems, such as seizures or disorientation
In critical cases, Lassa fever can cause multi-organ damage, including liver and kidney damage.
Diagnosis of Lassa Fever
Diagnosing Lassa fever can be challenging because of its similarity to other illnesses, such as malaria and typhoid fever. Accurate diagnosis often requires specialized laboratory testing in facilities equipped with high levels of biosecurity measures. Early detection is critical for effective treatment and control of potential outbreaks.
Lassa fever: treatment
The antiviral drug ribavirin has shown effectiveness, especially when given early, according to the National Institutes of Health and various other registration organizations. Treatment usually includes supportive care to control symptoms, such as:
- Moisturizing
- pain management
- Monitor organ function
For severe cases, hospitalization and close monitoring may be required. Isolating the patient immediately can help prevent spread to others, especially in a health care setting.
Preventive measures against Lassa virus
According to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, preventing Lassa fever primarily involves reducing contact with rodents in endemic areas. Key prevention strategies include:
- Store food safely and keep your home clean to prevent rodents
- Use of protective equipment such as gloves, masks and gowns for healthcare providers
- Educate communities about risks and protective actions
In healthcare settings, implementing strict infection control protocols is critical to protect medical staff and other patients.
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Source: https://dinhtienhoang.edu.vn
Category: Optical Illusion