By Asmau Ahmad
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has urged the Federal Government to establish laboratories for the test of Lassa fever virus and other viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) cases in the country.
The Secretary of the Association in Anambra state, Dr. Tony Okoye, made the call in an interview with newsmen in Onitsha.
Dr. Okoye said the establishment of such laboratories would reduce risks to patients and healthcare workers.
“The lassa virus testing laboratory at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo, was established by the Federal Government. It is the only facility in the country and should be replicated by the state governments for emergencies.
“It is good to have them in more places although it is cost intensive in terms of personnel and equipment,” he said.
Okoye, who said that Lassa virus could be detected at an early stage of illness, could kill patients within two weeks.
