By; IBRAHIM ADAMU, Kaduna
Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), has alerted all healthcare workers to maintain a high index of suspicion and observe standard precautionary measure at all times in the course of their duties.
The call by the umbrella body of medical practitioners in the country followed the suspected outbreak of lassa fever at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna.
The association confirmed the death of a nurse, one pharmacist, one paramedic and a patient in Kaduna yesterday, stating that the death was recorded within 48 to 72 hours, following contact from a patient with febrile illness.
The Kaduna Branch of the Association disclosed this in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Dr. Shuaibu Joga and made available to newsmen yesterday.
According to Joga in the statement, he stated that six samples had already been taken for the suspected cases and awaiting confirmation, while contact tracing was being intensified by the State Epidemiologist and team.
“We call on government, hospital managements and proprietors of private health facilities across the State to ensure the provision and use of PPEs (Personal Protective Equipments) for all healthcare workers to further reduce risk of transmission.
“We will continue to sensitize members and the general public on preventive measures in order to prevent further spread in Kaduna State,” the statement contained.
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