Lassa Fever

Lassa Fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus. Symptoms of Lassa Fever include fever, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, the disease can cause deafness, seizures, hemorrhaging, and other neurological problems. The virus is transmitted to humans through contact with the saliva and urine of an infected rodent called the "multimammate rat". While the mortality rate of Lassa Fever is low, it can cause significant morbidity in humans, particularly in areas lacking basic healthcare infrastructure. Treatment options include antiviral medications and supportive care such as hydration and oxygen therapy. Prevention of infection is largely dependent on education and public health measures such as avoiding contact with infected animals, proper disposal of animal waste, and sealing cracks and holes in the home.