What causes Lassa fever? Know the symptoms, causes and treatment method

A case of Lassa fever was reported in West Africa. Due to this, a patient also died. The person who died from the disease was kept in isolation at the University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center in Iowa City. He died on the afternoon of 29 October. Know the symptoms of Lassa fever and how it can be treated. 

What is Lassa fever?

Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease caused by the Lassa virus. It is spread by a rat called Mastomys natalensis. Which is found in some parts of Western Africa. According to information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Lassa fever can be fatal. This viral disease is considered endemic in Benin, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Sierra Leone, Togo and Nigeria.

Also present in other West African countries. The overall fertility rate is one percent. In severe cases of Lassa fever, the observed mortality rate among hospitalized patients is 15%. The first case of Lassa fever was reported in 1969. This disease is named after Nigeria. Where it was first diagnosed.

What are the symptoms of Lassa fever?

This disease starts with symptoms like fever, general weakness and malaise. After a few days, additional symptoms may develop, including headache, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, and stomach pain. In severe cases, individuals may experience facial swelling, accumulation of fluid in the lung cavity, bleeding from the mouth, nose, vagina or gastrointestinal tract, and low blood pressure.

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The incubation period for this disease ranges from 6 to 21 days, with symptoms usually appearing 1 to 3 weeks after infection. In fatal cases, death often occurs within 14 days of the onset of symptoms. The disease is particularly severe in late pregnancy, with maternal death and/or fetal loss occurring in more than 80% of cases during the third trimester.

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What is its treatment?

According to WHO report, currently there is no treatment for this disease. But several potential treatments are being developed.

Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you must consult the concerned expert.

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