Abuja: Dr. Kingsley Akhamie of Nisa Premier Hospital has emphasised the importance of vector control, environmental hygiene, and preventive health practices to combat the spread of yellow fever and Lassa fever in Nigeria. In an interview with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Akhamie described both illnesses as highly dangerous viral infections and ongoing public health concerns, particularly during seasonal outbreaks.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Akhamie explained that yellow fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, especially in areas with poor environmental sanitation. He noted that symptoms include sudden fever, chills, back pain, headache, jaundice, nausea, and in severe cases, bleeding and organ failure. Treatment for yellow fever is supportive as there is no specific antiviral drug, so early detection and care are critical, with prevention through vaccination being highly effective. He mentioned that it is part of the routine immunisation schedule and provides strong protection.
For Lassa fever, Akhamie stated it is spread primarily through contact with food or items contaminated by rodent urine or faeces, and might also be transmitted person-to-person in healthcare settings lacking proper infection control. Symptoms include fever, chest pain, vomiting, facial swelling, and in severe cases, internal bleeding. He warned that it can be easily misdiagnosed in early stages because the symptoms resemble other common febrile illnesses.
Akhamie stressed the need for communities to engage in rodent control, store food securely, and maintain clean environments to reduce risk. He highlighted that prevention begins at home by keeping living environments clean and avoiding direct contact with rodents or contaminated materials. He also noted that early treatment with Ribavirin, an antiviral medication, significantly improved survival rates, particularly when administered within the first six days of symptom onset.
Highlighting broader preventive measures, Akhamie advised the use of mosquito nets, insect repellents, and proper waste disposal to reduce breeding grounds. He urged the public to remain vigilant and seek medical care promptly when symptoms appeared. He emphasized that healthcare is not just about treatment, but also about education, prevention, and timely action, calling on Nigerians to cultivate a habit of vaccination, uphold hygienic practices, and take early symptoms seriously.