Lassa Fever in Nigeria: Practical Prevention and Early Action

Many families in Nigeria hear “Lassa fever” and immediately think, “Ha! That’s far from us.” The truth is, it can show up in any community, and the best protection is simple everyday habits. This guide keeps things practical—what to do at home, what to avoid, and how to act early if someone falls ill.

First, what is Lassa fever (in plain words)?

Lassa fever is a viral illness often linked to contact with rodents or their waste, especially in homes and food storage areas. It can start like a common fever or malaria and then get worse quickly if not treated early. The good news? Early action and good hygiene reduce risk a lot.

Why everyday habits matter

You don’t need a lab to improve safety. Most prevention is simple “home economics”: - Keep food covered and stored properly - Reduce rodents around your home - Maintain clean, dry surfaces (especially in kitchens and stores) - Practice safe handling of waste

If you live in Uyo or anywhere in Akwa Ibom, harmattan dust, food storage in open spaces, and crowded markets can increase risk of rodents and contamination. Small changes help big time.

Practical checklist: what to do this week

Here’s a simple checklist you can actually follow. Pick 5–7 items and get going today: 1) Store grains, garri, beans, and snacks in sealed containers (not open sacks). 2) Sweep kitchen floors and wipe counters daily; rodents love crumbs. 3) Cover water and food at all times—especially overnight. 4) Dispose of waste properly; don’t leave open bins in or near the kitchen. 5) Seal holes and gaps in doors/walls where rodents enter. 6) Dry dishes and cooking utensils fully before keeping them. 7) Avoid drying food by the roadside where dust and rodents can contaminate. 8) Keep your compound clean; cut bushes around the house. 9) Store firewood and cartons away from living areas. 10) Teach children not to touch dead rodents or unknown animals.

Small effort now saves a lot of worry later.

Common early symptoms people ignore

This is where many people delay, thinking it’s just malaria or “normal fever.” Early Lassa fever symptoms can look like: - Fever that doesn’t improve after basic malaria treatment - General weakness or body aches - Headache or sore throat - Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea - Chest or abdominal pain - Cough (sometimes)

If someone has a persistent fever with no clear cause, or gets worse quickly, don’t sit on it. Early testing and treatment can be life-saving.

Do/Don’t table for quick reference

Do	Don’t
Keep food sealed and covered	Leave cooked food open overnight
Sweep and wipe kitchen areas daily	Ignore rodent droppings or urine
Seek care early for fever that persists	Self-medicate for days hoping it passes
Keep waste bins covered	Store refuse near food areas
Seal gaps in doors and walls	Assume rodents can’t reach high shelves

Myth vs Fact (short and clear)

Myth: “Lassa fever is only a village disease.” Fact: It can happen anywhere, including towns and cities, if rodents and poor food storage are present.

Myth: “If it’s not bleeding, it can’t be Lassa.” Fact: Many cases start without bleeding. Waiting for severe signs is risky.

Myth: “Herbal mixtures can cure it.” Fact: Lassa fever is a viral illness that needs professional care. Delays can be dangerous.

When to seek urgent help (red flags)

Go to a hospital or qualified health facility urgently if anyone has: - High fever that lasts more than 48–72 hours - Fever with vomiting that won’t stop - Severe weakness or confusion - Bleeding from the gums, nose, or in stool/urine - Difficulty breathing or chest pain - Worsening symptoms after taking malaria treatment

Don’t wait at home to “observe.” Early care saves lives.

What to expect at the clinic

People worry they’ll be “blamed” or treated harshly. Please don’t be afraid to seek care. Health workers are trained to assess and test for Lassa fever when symptoms match. They may ask about your home environment, food storage, and recent illness in the household. Early treatment improves outcomes, so go as soon as you can.

Extra tips for families, students, and shop owners

• Families: Make rodent control a household routine. Everyone should know where food is stored and how it’s covered.
• Students: Don’t keep open snacks under beds or in drawers for days. Use sealed containers.
• Shop owners/market traders: Keep storage clean and off the floor; don’t stack open food on bare ground.

Quick recap

Lassa fever prevention isn’t only about “big” interventions. It’s about daily habits—clean kitchens, sealed food, proper waste handling, and quick action when fever doesn’t settle. If there’s one thing to remember: don’t delay care for persistent fever.

Short disclaimer

This article is for general health education only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you’re unwell or worried about symptoms, please seek care from a qualified health professional.

Need guidance or have questions? Chat with a pharmacist or contact us directly: - WhatsApp us - Visit or contact Amela Pharmacy