Lassa Fever in Guinea

09 Feb 2018

The Washington Post reports a case of lassa fever in Guinea. The details are scarce, but it is reported that a Guinean citizen crossed the border into Liberia and died on 11 January. About 25 of the person's contacts are said to be under surveillance. This is believed to be the first case of lassa fever in Guinea for over 20 years.

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.