Epidemiology and Comprehensive Review on the Myth and Facts of Lassa Fever Transmission

Lassa fever (LF) is a hemorrhagic disease that is common throughout West Africa. It is mostly caused by unsanitary conditions and inadequate rat control, particularly in rural areas. Many people who contract the virus do not show any symptoms. When symptoms appear, they usually include headaches, weakness and fever. Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, lethargy and sickness, typically start first. Mastomys natalensis, commonly referred to as the multimammate mouse, serves as the virus’ main host. Mice that are infected are virus carriers. The Lassa virus is the cause of Lassa fever in humans. Humans can also contract Lassa fever by eating food tainted with an infected mouse’s excrement, urine or blood, among other things. Treatment is directed at addressing dehydration and improving symptoms. Ribavirin is currently used in treating individuals with cases of Lassa fever, as well as for post-exposure prophylaxis. When treating infected patients, health professionals are also at high risk of contracting the infection, especially if they do not follow infection prevention and control protocols to stop the nosocomial transmission of the Lassa virus. Therefore, with accurate information and appropriate measures, the impact of Lassa fever can be significantly reduced. Hence, increasing awareness and education about Lassa fever has been advocated for its prevention and control.