Lassa Fever: Prevention, Treatment & When to Seek Care
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever endemic in West Africa. No widely available vaccine exists yet (candidates in development).
Prevention
- Rodent control: Mastomys rats are the reservoir. Store food in rodent-proof containers; dispose of garbage away from home; trap rodents.
- Hygiene: Wash hands with soap/water, especially after rodent contact or handling potentially contaminated materials.
- Avoid exposure: Don't touch rodent urine/feces; cover cuts; avoid contact with sick individuals' body fluids.
- Safe food/water: Cook thoroughly; drink boiled/bottled water.
- Healthcare precautions: Standard + contact/droplet precautions; VHF protocols for suspected cases.
Treatment
- Supportive care: IV fluids, electrolytes, oxygen, blood products as needed.
- Ribavirin: Antiviral; most effective if started ≤6 days after symptom onset. Reduces mortality.
- Treat complications: Antibiotics for secondary infections; manage bleeding, shock, organ failure.
Urgent Action
Suspected Lassa fever → isolate immediately, notify public health, transfer to facility with VHF capacity. Early ribavirin improves survival.
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