Lassa Fever

Lassa fever is an acute viral illness occurring in West Africa. Humans become infected with Lassa fever from contact with infected animals. The animal reservoir of Lassa fever is a rodent of the genus Mastomys. Rats shed the virus in their urine and feces.

Persons at greatest risk are those living in rural areas where the rodent reservoir is usually found, especially in areas of poor sanitation or crowded living conditions. Humans become infected from exposure to excreta of  infected rodents. Person-to-person contact may also occur. Sexual transmission of Lassa fever has been reported. Prevention includes avoiding contact with Mastomys rodents, storing food in rodent-proof containers and keeping a clean home to avoid rodents entering the home.



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