0
0
The National Orientation Agency, NOA, in Kwara State, has begun a statewide public enlightenment campaign on the prevention of Lassa fever, cholera and cerebrospinal meningitis.
At a press conference ahead of the exercise, the State Director, National Orientation Agency, Alhaji Dare Olurotimi, explained that the campaign was necessary because of the prevalence of the diseases at this time of the year.
Alhaji Olurotimi pointed out that the campaign would strengthen preparedness and response across the sixteen local government areas of the State to reduce incidences and mortality.
“I urge community and religious leaders to take the lead in spreading awareness and ensuring community members adopt preventive measures.
“Local governments to intensify sanitation efforts and improve water supply systems.
“Healthcare providers to prioritize early detection and response.
“Citizens to take responsibility by adopting personal and environmental hygiene practices.
“The National Orientation Agency (NOA) remains committed to ensuring that every Nigerian is informed and empowered to take necessary precautions against these deadly diseases.
“Together, through awareness, action, and responsibility, we can prevent outbreaks, protect our communities, and save lives.”
On cerebrospinal meningitis, the NOA Kwara State Director, said it is a bacterial infection which affects the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, highly contagious and can spread through respiratory droplets.
He emphasized the need for proper ventilation in schools, homes, offices and other public places to prevent an outbreak.
“Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent CSM – The government and health agencies are making vaccines available, and we encourage all eligible individuals to get vaccinated.”
Alhaji Olurotimi identified symptoms of cerebrospinal meningitis to include stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion and high fever, while urging anyone showing such symptoms to seek urgent medical attention.
For Lassa fever, he described it as a deadly disease mostly contacted through rodents such as rabbits and rats and warned people against consumption of the animals while ensuring that their environment is kept clean always.
“Lassa Fever is another life-threatening disease, caused by the Lassa virus and transmitted primarily by rodents, particularly the Mastomys rat. Nigeria records hundreds of cases annually, with fatality rates as high as 30% in severe cases.
Lassa Fever is particularly dangerous because its early symptoms—fever, weakness, sore throat, and headache—resemble common illnesses like malaria or typhoid. Delayed diagnosis increases the risk of complications, including organ failure, bleeding disorders, and even death.
‘Health workers and caregivers should also take extra precautions, as human-to-human transmission is possible through contact with bodily fluids of an infected person.”
To prevent cholera, Alhaji Olurotimi emphasized the need to drink and cook with safe water, treat unsafe water before use, adherence to strict personal and environmental hygiene, and dispose waste properly.
“Proper sanitation and waste disposal – Open defecation and poor hygiene practices are major contributors to cholera outbreaks. Public health initiatives should focus on improving latrine access.
“Early treatment saves lives – Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) and immediate medical intervention can prevent severe complications.”
The NOA Kwara State Director, added that vaccination, early diagnosis and treatment would prevent fatalities arising from the infections.
By Rasheedat Iliyas
