Akure, Nigeria — In a bid to tackle the recurring public health threat of Lassa fever, Nigeria is implementing a pioneering strategy by activating local networks. At a motor park in Akure, Ondo State, the campaign was brought to life through a sensitization session, showcasing the country’s dedication to community involvement in this fight. Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic fever spread through contact with food or surfaces contaminated by infected rodents, is a significant concern in Nigeria.
The disease is often lethal, predominantly due to late diagnosis and delayed care seeking. To counter these challenges, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), along with the Edo and Ondo State Governments and support from the World Health Organization (WHO), is bolstering Lassa fever prevention efforts.
The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa, underscored the necessity of collaboration with traditional and community leaders to ensure prevention messages reach every household. Officials commented on the matter. More than 80 community leaders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, women, and youth leaders, have been engaged across 15 high-burden local government areas to disseminate preventive messages and encourage early care seeking.
These leaders, who are in regular contact with both rural and urban populations, act as the forefront of information sharing. Chief Folorunsho Bukola, a traditional leader from Ondo State, emphasized the importance of trusted local voices in fostering community engagement. “Trusted local voices make communities more willing to listen, adopt preventive practices, and seek treatment early, “he commented.
The multifaceted approach includes enhancing surveillance, improving early detection, and expanding risk communication and community engagement.
The sensitization session in Akure demonstrated the campaign’s efficacy by providing transport workers, who are in daily contact with a high volume of people, with practical knowledge and communication tools to disseminate life-saving messages.
The initiative has received positive feedback from both the public and health experts. Dr. John Olorunfemi, a public health specialist, praised the campaign’s approach. “.
Engaging community leaders and trusted voices is a critical step in preventing the spread of Lassa fever. It ensures that the message reaches the people who need it most, “he stated.
As Nigeria faces the challenges posed by Lassa fever, the mobilization of community leaders represents a hopeful strategy for prevention and control, leveraging the power of local networks towards a healthier future for its citizens.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: World Health Organization
