What is lassa fever? Understanding the risks of lassa fever virus

Don't be caught unprepared by this serious viral illness. Knowing the facts about Lassa fever is your first line of defense. This expert guide provides the crucial information you need to protect yourself and your family from potential exposure.

What are the main causes of Lassa Fever?

• The disease is caused by the Lassa virus, which is primarily carried by the multimammate rat, a common rodent in West Africa.
• Humans typically get infected through exposure to the urine or feces of infected rats, often via contaminated food, water, or household items.
• Person-to-person transmission can occur through direct contact with the blood, urine, feces, or other bodily fluids of an infected individual.

Key symptoms of Lassa Fever to watch for

• Initial symptoms often include fever, general weakness, and malaise, appearing 1-3 weeks after a person becomes infected with the virus.
• More severe symptoms may develop, such as headache, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• In critical cases, patients can experience facial swelling, fluid in the lung cavity, bleeding from the mouth or nose, and low blood pressure.

How can you prevent Lassa Fever effectively?

• The primary prevention method is avoiding contact with rats by storing food in rodent-proof containers and maintaining clean household environments. 
• Promote good community hygiene to discourage rodents from entering homes, including proper garbage disposal and blocking potential entry points.
• Healthcare workers should consistently apply standard infection control precautions when caring for patients to prevent transmission in clinical settings.

>>> Details at: Chagas Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Recognizing the warning signs of  Lassa Fever through images 

>>> See more: Filariasis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management

Awareness and proper hygiene are your strongest allies against Lassa fever. If you live in or travel to an endemic area, stay vigilant. For specific health advice or concerns, always consult a qualified medical professional for guidance.

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