The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has launched a crucial awareness campaign in Kogi State to curb the potential spread of Lassa fever. The initiative began with a roadshow on Tuesday in Lokoja, led by Acting State Director of NOA, Patrick Edogbanya.

Edogbanya highlighted that the purpose of the campaign is to educate the public and prevent Lassa fever from affecting Kogi. He emphasized that Dekina Local Government Area was selected for a town hall meeting to engage rural communities directly, where the risk of the disease is most prevalent.

Malam Lanre Isa-Onilu, the Director General of NOA, stressed the importance of collective action in preventing the disease. In a message read by Edna Iria, Isa-Onilu pointed out that, despite the lack of a vaccine for Lassa fever, simple hygiene practices and individual responsibility can play a significant role in prevention.

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The NOA, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and other stakeholders, is spearheading a nationwide campaign focused on Lassa fever prevention. This campaign is particularly vital during the dry season when the disease is more likely to spread.

The key preventive measures promoted by the campaign include frequent handwashing, storing food in rodent-proof containers, and avoiding contact with individuals or materials that may be contaminated. The NOA has also mobilized local government and state officers to spread these messages through various media platforms and community engagements, including schools where Lassa fever prevention is being incorporated into curricula.