Lassa Fever in Benin

06 Feb 2018

The World Health Organisation (WHO)  has reported 21 cases (including 8 deaths) of lassa fever in Benin from 8 January to 2 February 2018. The cases have been reported from four departments: Alibori (2 cases, 1 death) Atacora (8 cases, 4 deaths), Borgou (7 cases and 2 deaths) and Collines (4 cases and 1 death).

Advice for Travellers

Lassa fever is a low risk for most travellers unless living in poor sanitary conditions with overcrowding in rural areas where the host is usually found. Lassa fever is a viral disease transmitted via the faeces of infected rats. Healthcare workers are at risk if good infection control and barrier nursing methods are not maintained.

Travellers returning from affected areas who develop symptoms of fever, malaise, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain should seek medical advice.