What exactly is Lassa virus? Here's everything you need to know
Lassa virus has been hitting headlines around the world, but what exactly is it?
After a newborn baby died of Lassa virus in England, parents have been understandably concerned about the illness.
However, we've got all the details here to inform and reassure you.
So, what is Lassa virus?
Lassa fever is a viral infection caused by the Lassa virus. It is more commonly found in West Africa.
A newborn baby in England died from Lassa fever this month.
Three cases were identified in Bedfordshire, but they were all linked to recent travel in West Africa.
Most people who contract Lassa virus don't develop symptoms. Usually, only 20% of people get symptoms including Lassa fever. The viral hemorrhagic fever appears gradually.
Other symptoms include general weakness, headache, sore throat. Other symptoms include tiredness, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, stomach pain, nausea and chest pain.
Most people who contract Lassa virus don't develop symptoms.
However, people with more severe cases may suffer from facial swelling and bleeding from multiple sites.
Low blood pressure and fluid in the lungs could also occur.
They can also develop confusion, seizures, shock, and shaking too.
Even more extreme cases will result in a coma.
One of the most common side effects is deafness. People with weakened immune systems, vulnerable people and elderly people are at a higher risk.
33% of patients develop deafness as well as temporary hair loss. They can also develop a strange way of walking.
The mortality rate for hospitalised patients is 15-20%. But full recovery is common in most cases.
Deaths rates are particularly high in women in the third trimester of pregnancy.
However, the overall mortality rate is only 1%.
There is no vaccine for Lassa virus, but there is an antiviral drug that helps ease symptoms.
It is spread through direct contact with the urine and/or feces of the multimammate rat.
You can also catch it by inhaling particles containing Lassa virus.
According to the HPSC, "person to person spread can occur via infected blood or bodily fluids."
Lassa fever could be spread in Ireland if someone returning from an affected country is infectious.
Thankfully, the chances of this happening at the moment are low.
