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The Nigerian Disease Control Center (NCDC) yesterday announced the outbreak of yellow fever in the state of Edo.
In a statement, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, director general of NCDC in Abuja, said that after a fever outbreak of unknown origin in four local government areas, a public health team had opened an investigation. November 21 and that nine cases were tested positive. for yellow fever.
He added that the Edo epidemiology team would work with NCDC and other relevant agencies to conduct a detailed investigation and provide response to previously confirmed cases.
According to him, the NCDC has deployed a rapid response team to assist the state in contact tracing, risk communication and case management.
"Plans are underway to launch the vaccination campaign in the state in response to the cluster of cases.
"The yellow fever virus is transmitted by bites by an infected mosquito. It's a totally preventable disease by vaccination and a single injection immunizes your entire life.
"The yellow fever vaccine is available for free at all primary health care centers in Nigeria," he said.
Ihekweazu therefore advised the public to keep its environment clean and free from standing water to discourage mosquito breeding and use insecticide-treated mosquito nets, mosquito nets on windows and doors to prevent mosquito bites.
"Since September 2017, Nigeria has recorded suspected cases of yellow fever in the country.
"As of November 11, 140 cases had been laboratory confirmed in Nigeria. A yellow fever multi-agency emergency operations center was set up at NCDC to coordinate the response.
"Symptoms of yellow fever include yellowing of the eyes, sudden fever, headache and body pain. If you have these symptoms or notice that someone in your community is showing them, please contact the nearest health center.
"This week, our sister agency, NPHCDA, has launched a vast yellow fever vaccination campaign targeting 26 million children and adults (aged 9 months to 44 years) in Niger, in the Plateau. , Borno, Sokoto, Kebbi and the FCT, "he said.
Ihekweazu added that one dose of the yellow fever vaccine provides lifelong protection against the disease.
"We urge all Nigerians to be vaccinated and encourage their families and neighbors to do the same," he said.
He also assured all Nigerians that NCDC would continue to work with states and their partners nationwide to ensure that the epidemic is halted. (NOPE)
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