Nelson Utip
Dr Joseph Okoeguale, a Consultant of obstetrics and gynecology, the Guest Speaker at the First Edition of The College of Medical Sciences Lecture series of The Edo State University, Uzairue, has revealed that Edo State has recorded 240 positive cases of lassa fever, resulting in 21 deaths between December and March this year, he also disclosed that 37.7 million people in 14 West African countries are at risk of lassa fever infection annually with over 5000 possible deaths in a lecture titled “ “University Community Collaboration in Lassa Fever Research: Advancing Diagnostic Capacity and Vaccine Development in Nigeria.” He claimed that lassa fever is classified by the World Health Organization, WHO, as a priority disease for research and development.
Dr. Okoeguale said that 20% of those infected are symptomatic while 80% are asymptomatic and do not sick or present themselves for treatment, adding that the only way to bring a stop to the scourge of the disease is by prevention and vaccination.
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The Medical Practitioner said that Lassa Fever has continued to cause mortalities in all age groups and in both male and female, undiagnosed and unchallenged hence, WHO recommended centres of excellence in affected region such as Lassa Fever centre at Kenema General Hospital, Sierra Leone and the Institute of Lassa Fever Research and Control, Irrua also known as Institute of Viral And Emergent Pathogens Control And Research, adding that the numbers have increased to five with Federal Medical Center, Owo, FMC Bauchi and FETHA, Abakaliki.
”Lassa fever outbreak has continued to occur yearly with growing incidence and increasing geographical spread affecting children, pregnant and non pregnant adults in Nigeria”.
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“The yearly outbreak of Lassa fever has placed enormous strain on all aspects of the health system in Nigeria and the only way to bring a stop to this scourge of disease is by vaccination and prevention”. He added.
“We have built and equipped an ultramodern clinical trial and sequencing centre and we have also commenced the sequencing not only of the Lassa fever virus, but the Covid-19 and monkey pox virus.
The Acting Vice Chancellor of The University, Prof Dawood Egbefo in his opening remarks said that the occasion was to address a crucial issue that affects both the community and nation at large.
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According to him, Lassa Fever remained a significant public health challenge in Nigeria that affected countless lives and placed a strain on the healthcare system, he noted that the recognition of the crucial role of collaboration in advancing, understanding and responses by bringing together the strength of academic institutions, healthcare providers and local communities to foster innovative solutions that will enhance diagnostic capabilities and pave way for effective vacuum development.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration of various disciplines as Lassa Fever research needs contribution from various fields such as biology, medicine, public health, social sciences to enhance a culture of teamwork that can create a holistic approach to the public health challenge, while thanking The Provost, College of Medical Sciences, Dr Kenneth Atoe for organizing the first lecture series, Egbefo said the event is not only showcasing the dedication and hard work by the university but also highlights that the university is at the forefront of championing the vital principle that public health is indeed a cornerstone of wealth.
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Dr. Kenneth Atoe, The Acting Provost College of Medical Sciences Edo State University Uzairue, Dr. Kenneth Atoe in his address said that the occasion was to explore a crucial topic which is in tandem with the institution’s commitment to improving public health as well as addressing local challenges, he also said that the lecture series was aimed at fostering dialogue and knowledge shared between researchers, healthcare professionals and community stakeholders; stimulate research and innovations in Lassa Fever diagnosis, treatment and prevention and also to promote evidence-based policy decisions and community-led intervention.
He appreciated the Acting Vice Chancellor and his management team for their support , recognizing that sustainability is key to long term impact and appealed to the university management, stakeholders and partners to continue supporting the initiative by ensuring its continuity and growth.
