Lassa Fever in a Rural Setting
A 35-year-old female farmer from a remote village presented to a local health center with a four-day history of fever, fatigue, and severe headache. She reported worsening symptoms, including muscle pain, chest discomfort, and a persistent sore throat. Over the past two days, she also experienced nausea and vomiting. Her condition raised concern when she began showing signs of bleeding gums and nosebleeds.
The patient had been living in a small house where rodents were frequently observed, especially around stored grain. She mentioned that other family members had recently experienced similar, milder symptoms. Given her rural environment and potential exposure to rodent droppings, the healthcare team suspected a viral haemorrhagic fever, specifically Lassa fever, a disease endemic in the region.
Laboratory tests confirmed the diagnosis, and the patient was admitted for isolation and supportive care. Public health officials were alerted, and efforts were made to inform the village about the risks associated with rodent exposure. The health department implemented rodent control measures and provided education on proper food storage and hygiene practices to prevent further infections.
The case highlighted the importance of early recognition of Lassa fever in rural areas, public health surveillance, and community-based interventions to control rodent populations and reduce the spread of the virus.
a). Cough and shortness of breath
b). Fever, fatigue, and severe headache
c). Rash and joint pain
d). Abdominal pain and diarrhoea
a). Contaminated water supply
b). Close contact with infected individuals
c). Presence of rodents around stored grain
d). Recent travel to an urban area
a). Mild headache
b). Bleeding gums and nosebleeds
c). Loss of appetite
d). Fatigue
a). Immediate vaccination of all villagers
b). Implementation of rodent control measures and education on food storage
c). Quarantine of the entire village
d). Closure of local markets
