By Kemi Olatunde
Ondo State Government has reiterated its commitment towards eradicating Lassa fever just as it added that it has given priority to effective treatment of cases with three designated treatment sites for the fever in the state.
These sites include; Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, Infectious Disease Hospital, Akure and St. Louis Hospital, Owo.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Awolowo Ajaka made the disclosure during the flag ceremony of the rat eradication campaign in Owo on Monday.
Describing Ondo State has one of the endemic States in Nigeria, he explained that the treatment sites have been put in place to ensure easy access to treatment noting that Ondo State is one of the few states with either totally free or heavily subsidized treatment of Lassa fever.
Speaking further, he said that government has produced raticides which are distributed free of charge to residents stating that they should be used appropriately.
He advised residents to ensure proper reportage of number of rat killed in their household for impact assessment of the exercise.
He called on Local Government to take ownership of the exercise in order to win the battle against it especially with the combination of hygienic measures.
While expressing appreciation to the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye 111, for his support for the exercise, he called on him to ensure that the people embrace proper food processing and avoid sun drying food.
He advised that residents maintain clean environment, embrace proper waste management and also discourage bush burning.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Pharm(Mrs) Folukemi Aladenola who noted that government has been at the forefront in fighting the battle of Lassa fever explained that it is prepared to reduce drastically the number of infected persons on yearly basis.
According to her, it is endemic in Owo, Akure South, Akure North, Ose, Akoko South West, Akoko South East and Idanre Local Government Areas stating that government is committed towards its complete eradication.
While appreciating stakeholders for their support in this regards, she called on all to play active role in the campaign.
Representative, Chairman, Owo Local Government, Hon. Taye Adako while speaking assured of support in eradication of the fever.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Prof. Dayo Faduyile noted that Owo is known for its ability to conquer the fever urging residents to continue to embrace cleanliness.
In his response, Oba Ogunoye commended the State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu for his efforts in the health sector especially in Lassa eradication.
He noted that residents of Owo are aware of ways of tackling it urging them not to relent in such manner.
He called on residents to support government in ensuring good use of the raticides in order to guarantee health living.
He also called for synergy between government, FMC, Owo and Primary Health Care for effective service delivery in related to Lassa.
However, he assured of proper information dissemination to residents for positive response.
Deputy Director, Public Health and Health Promotion Officer, Mrs Oludolapo Falokun demonstrated the use of the raticides to residents.
