ABIA STATE ASSURES RESIDENTS OF NO LASSA FEVER CASES, INTENSIFIES BORDER SURVEILLANCE. (PHOTO).

 Abia State Assures Residents of No Lassa Fever Cases, Intensifies Border Surveillance

The Abia State Government has reassured residents that no cases of Lassa Fever have been recorded in the state, despite confirmed outbreaks in some other parts of the federation.

The assurance was given by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a press briefing at Government House, Umuahia, on Monday, following the weekly Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.

Kanu stated that the Ministry of Health and relevant agencies have intensified surveillance efforts, particularly at all border towns connecting Abia to neighboring states, to prevent any potential spread of the disease.

“In the state, Lassa Fever which has broken out in some parts of the federation has not been noticed here,” he said. “The Ministry of Health staff and other relevant agencies are working assiduously to make sure that all border towns leading into the state are kept under surveillance.”

The commissioner emphasized the government's proactive measures to safeguard public health amid ongoing concerns about infectious diseases across the country.

In the same briefing, the state government clarified misconceptions surrounding the Senior Citizens Law No. 4, signed into law by Governor Otti.

The government denied reports suggesting the law was designed to distribute monthly cash payments to elderly residents.

Instead, Kanu explained that the legislation focuses on providing comprehensive social services and support for vulnerable aged persons aged 60 and above.

These include food and nutrition assistance, health support, provision of gifts and housing aid, as well as mental health care and other forms of welfare to ensure dignity and inclusion for senior citizens.