The outbreak of Lassa fever which has been ravaging some parts of the country, has claimed the life of a 65-year-old woman who was diagnosed with the illness in Delta State.
The victim, who was first admitted at St Joseph Hospital, Asaba and later referred to the Federal Medical Centre, in the city, gave up the ghost after doctors battled in vain to save her.
The woman whose identity was unknown at press time, reportedly hailed from Ifiogwari village, Ayamelunu, in Anambra State.
Saying that the case was confirmed at the Virology Laboratory of the Specialist Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, a source who pleaded anonymity, said two other samples sent to the same laboratory tested negative.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Rapid Response Team said it had placed 22 persons who had contact with the victim on surveillance with five samples sent for laboratory investigation.
Disclosing that the Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja had been notified, the source said that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has provided the necessary logistics to enhance contact tracing and other control measures.
