WOMAN DIES OF LASSA FEVER IN OGUN STATE

Lassa fever has killed a 26-year-old woman, Titilayo Akinsola, in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

The victim died on Saturday at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, where she was admitted four days ago.

The hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Segun Orisajo, confirmed the death to reporters in Abeokuta Saturday night.

Orisajo, who stated that the deceased was admitted to the hospital, disclosed that series of tests showed she had Lassa fever.

The death came barely three days after the Ogun State government denied the outbreak of the hemorrhagic fever in the state.

The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, had denied a report by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NSCDC) which designated Ogun as one of the states with the case of Lassa fever in the country.

Speaking with reporters, Orisajo said the medical team of the hospital did everything possible to save the life of the victim.

“She (the victim) was rushed to the hospital four days ago and series of tests confirmed that she had Lassa fever. Our medical team did everything possible to save her life but unfortunately she died,” he said.

The official, however, allayed the fears of members of the public over the incident.

He assured that the hospital and the state government were jointly on top of the situation to contain spread of the disease.

When contacted, the state Health Commissioner also confirmed the death.

“It is true. Someone died of Lassa fever in the state today (Saturday),” Coker stated.

She, however, declined further comments.