Health workers in Yobe on alert over Lassa fever

Health workers in Yobe have been put on alert to watch out for patients with high grade fever and other symptoms of Lassa fever.

Dr Bello Kawuwa, the state Commissioner for Health, stated this on Monday in Damaturu at the inauguration of the Task Force on Immunisation and Primary Healthcare.

He charged members of the public and medical practitioners to observe universal precautions in handling excreta, vomits and other fluids of patients.

The commissioner assured that Yobe government would liaise with other stakeholders in handling any possible outbreak “like we partnered during the Ebola threat.”

Gov. Ibrahim Gaidam of Yobe , said the reconstituted Task Force, headed by his deputy, Abubakar Aliyu, would coordinate immunisation activities in the state.

Gaidam, who was represented by his deputy, said the task force would also work to consolidate the gains recorded by previous immunisations.

“You are to monitor and supervise immunisation, ensure timely and appropriate intervention to meet up possible gaps” he said.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, as well as the Dangote Foundation pledged to build cold chain stores in Gashua and Potiskum to reduce the distance in transporting drugs from Damaturu to other places. (NAN)