Predictors of Lassa Fever Mortality And Control Efforts In Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background Various public health response measures that have been put in place across Nigeria in recent years to control Lassa fever. However, many more cases are being reported with variations in mortality in different parts of the country including Plateau State. This study aimed to describe the predictors of Lassa fever mortality within the period of 2015-2019 and control efforts in Plateau State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods The study was a cross-sectional study employing the use of quantitative (records of Lassa fever cases in the state) and qualitative (key informant interviews of selected stakeholders) data. Analysis was carried out using IBM SPSS version 23. Logistic regression was used to determine the predictors of mortality and content analysis for qualitative data was done to describe the control efforts in the State. Results Lassa fever mortality rate for the period of study was 18.3% among all suspected and confirmed cases and was 43.4% among confirmed cases only. Age group, senatorial zone of residence and employment status were associated with mortality but only age group was a significant predictor of mortality (AOR=7.4; 95%CI 4.3– 21.7 for young adult and AOR=16.4; 95%CI 2.3–33.2 for middle aged when compared to children aged below 18 years). Control efforts are hinged on establishment of treatment centres and Emergency Operation Centre, surveillance, commodity supplies and mass education which come with challenges. Conclusion Lassa fever mortality remains high in Plateau state with the risk of dying associated with increasing age. Even with improvements in control efforts, there is need to further improve early case detection and management and also institute other preventive measures that will reduce mortality