Lassa Fever: Kwara to Sanction Food Handlers for Poor Hygiene!
Reported by Sadauna Lydia Edeh (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa.
The Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency has issued a stern warning to food processors, garri production centres, and street food vendors across the state to improve hygiene and waste management practices or face strict sanctions. The directive is part of intensified efforts to curb the spread of Lassa fever, a potentially fatal viral disease endemic in Nigeria.
In a statement made available to The PUNCH, the agency’s Press Secretary, Aliyu Amode, said environmental practices that facilitate rodent access to food and public spaces could heighten the risk of Lassa fever transmission.
Kwara Environmental Protection Agency General Manager, Jide Aina, explained that Lassa fever is frequently transmitted through contact with food contaminated by rodents, particularly the Mastomys rat which carries the virus in its urine and droppings. He said food handlers play a critical role in public health by preventing contamination during food processing, storage, and sales.
To mitigate these risks, garri processing units and other food facilities have been directed to store raw and finished products in rodent proof containers at all times, maintain regular cleaning of processing equipment, and ensure proper waste disposal to prevent rodent infestation.
Street food vendors were cautioned against unsafe practices such as spreading or displaying food on bare ground or exposed surfaces. They were urged to always cover food items, maintain personal hygiene, wash hands regularly with soap and clean water, and dispose of refuse responsibly.
The agency also announced plans to intensify inspections and enforcement activities across the state, warning that defaulters will face sanctions in line with environmental health regulations.
Earlier rumours on social media alleging Lassa fever deaths at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Kwara were debunked by the state government. Authorities confirmed there was no recorded outbreak or confirmed case at the camp following investigation by the Rapid Response Team.
National health authorities, including the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), continue to emphasize on the environmental sanitation, rodent control, and safe food handling as key preventive measures against Lassa fever.
Citations:
1.Punch Nigeria
https://punchng.com/
2.punch Nigeria
https://punchng.com/
3.punch Nigeria
https://ncdc.gov.ng/news/
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