Lassa virus
Arenaviridae
Africa, Western
Patient Isolators
Arenavirus
Guinea
Pichinde virus
Hemorrhagic Fevers, Viral
Liberia
Arenaviruses, Old World
Arenaviruses, New World
Marburg Virus Disease
Missions and Missionaries
Disease Reservoirs
Q Fever
Nigeria
Yellow Fever
Sierra Leone
Typhoid Fever
Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus
Dystroglycans
Lassa and Mopeia virus replication in human monocytes/macrophages and in endothelial cells: different effects on IL-8 and TNF-alpha gene expression. (1/107)
Cells of the mononuclear and endothelial lineages are targets for viruses which cause hemorrhagic fevers (HF) such as the filoviruses Marburg and Ebola, and the arenaviruses Lassa and Junin. A recent model of Marburg HF pathogenesis proposes that virus directly causes endothelial cell damage and macrophage release of TNF-alpha which increases the permeability of endothelial monolayers [Feldmann et al. , 1996]. We show that Lassa virus replicates in human monocytes/macrophages and endothelial cells without damaging them. Human endothelial cells (HUVEC) are highly susceptible to infection by both Lassa and Mopeia (a non-pathogenic Lassa-related arenavirus). Whereas monocytes must differentiate into macrophages before supporting even low level production of these viruses, the virus yields in the culture medium of infected HUVEC cells reach more than 7 log10 PFU/ml without cellular damage. In contrast to filovirus, Lassa virus replication in monocytes/macrophages fails to stimulate TNF-alpha gene expression and even down-regulates LPS-stimulated TNF-alpha mRNA synthesis. The expression of IL-8, a prototypic proinflammatory CXC chemokine, was also suppressed in Lassa virus infected monocytes/macrophages and HUVEC on both the protein and mRNA levels. This contrasts with Mopeia virus infection of HUVEC in which neither IL-8 mRNA nor protein are reduced. The cumulative down-regulation of TNF-alpha and IL-8 expression could explain the absence of inflammatory and effective immune responses in severe cases of Lassa HF. (+info)Characterization of human CD4(+) T-cell clones recognizing conserved and variable epitopes of the Lassa virus nucleoprotein. (2/107)
T cells must play the major role in controlling acute human Lassa virus infection, because patients recover from acute Lassa fever in the absence of a measurable neutralizing antibody response. T cells alone seem to protect animals from a lethal Lassa virus challenge, because after experimental vaccination no neutralizing antibodies are detectable. In order to study human T-cell reactivity to single Lassa virus proteins, the nucleoprotein (NP) of Lassa virus, strain Josiah, was cloned, expressed in Escherichia coli, and affinity purified. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) obtained from 8 of 13 healthy, Lassa virus antibody-positive individuals living in the Republic of Guinea, western Africa, were found to proliferate in response to the recombinant protein (proliferation index >/=10). PBMC obtained from one individual with a particularly high proliferative response were used to generate 50 NP-specific T-cell clones (TCC). For six of these the epitopes were mapped with overlapping synthetic peptides derived from the sequence of the NP. These CD4(+) TCC displayed high specific proliferation and produced mainly gamma interferon upon stimulation with NP. Because variation of up to 15% in the amino acid sequences of the structural proteins of naturally occurring Lassa virus variants has been observed, the reactivity of the TCC with peptides derived from the homologous epitopes of the Nigeria strain of Lassa virus and of the eastern Africa arenavirus Mopeia was tested. With the Nigeria strain of Lassa virus the levels of homology were 100% for two of these epitopes and 85% for three of them, whereas homology with the respective Mopeia epitopes ranged from 92 to 69%. Reactivity of the TCC with peptides derived from the variable epitopes of the Nigeria strain and of Mopeia was reduced or completely abolished. This report shows for the first time that seropositive individuals from areas of endemicity have very strong memory CD4(+) T-cell responses against the NP of Lassa virus, which are partly strain specific and partly cross-reactive with other Lassa virus strains. Our findings may have important implications for the strategy of designing recombinant vaccines against this mainly T-cell-controlled human arenavirus infection. (+info)Diagnosis and clinical virology of Lassa fever as evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, indirect fluorescent-antibody test, and virus isolation. (3/107)
The Lassa virus (an arenavirus) is found in West Africa, where it sometimes causes a severe hemorrhagic illness called Lassa fever. Laboratory diagnosis has traditionally been by the indirect fluorescent-antibody (IFA) test. However, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for Lassa virus antigen and immunoglobulin M (IgM) and G (IgG) antibodies have been developed that are thought to be more sensitive and specific. We compared ELISA and IFA testing on sera from 305 suspected cases of Lassa fever by using virus isolation with a positive reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) test as the "gold standard." Virus isolation and RT-PCR were positive on 50 (16%) of the 305 suspected cases. Taken together, Lassa virus antigen and IgM ELISAs were 88% (95% confidence interval [CI], 77 to 95%) sensitive and 90% (95% CI, 88 to 91%) specific for acute infection. Due to the stringent gold standard used, these likely represent underestimates. Diagnosis could often be made on a single serum specimen. Antigen detection was particularly useful in providing early diagnosis as well as prognostic information. Level of antigenemia varied inversely with survival. Detection by ELISA of IgG antibody early in the course of illness helped rule out acute Lassa virus infection. The presence of IFA during both acute and convalescent stages of infection, as well as significant interobserver variation in reading the slides, made interpretation difficult. However, the assay provided useful prognostic information, the presence of IFA early in the course of illness correlating with death. The high sensitivity and specificity, capability for early diagnosis, and prognostic value of the ELISAs make them the diagnostic tests of choice for the detection of Lassa fever. (+info)Effective vaccine for lassa fever. (4/107)
Lassa fever has been estimated to cause 5,000 deaths annually in West Africa. Recently, war in the zone where Lassa fever is hyperendemic has severely impeded control and treatment. Vaccination is the most viable control measure. There is no correlation between antibody levels and outcome in human patients, and inactivated vaccines produce high titers of antibodies to all viral proteins but do not prevent virus replication and death in nonhuman primates. Accordingly, we vaccinated 44 macaques with vaccinia virus-expressed Lassa virus structural proteins separately and in combination, with the object of inducing a predominantly TH1-type immune response. Following Lassa virus challenge, all unvaccinated animals died (0% survival). Nine of 10 animals vaccinated with all proteins survived (90% survival). Although no animals that received full-length glycoprotein alone had a high titer of antibody, 17 of 19 survived challenge (88%). In contrast, all animals vaccinated with nucleoprotein developed high titers of antibody but 12 of 15 died (20% survival). All animals vaccinated with single glycoproteins, G1 or G2, died, but all those that received both single glycoproteins (G1 plus G2) at separate sites survived, showing that both glycoproteins are independently important in protection. Neither group had demonstrable antibody levels prior to challenge. We demonstrate that in primates, immune responses to epitopes on both glycoproteins are required to protect against lethal challenge with Lassa virus without having untoward side effects and that this protection is likely to be primarily cell mediated. We show that an effective, safe vaccine against Lassa virus can and should be made and that its evaluation for human populations is a matter of humanitarian priority. (+info)Genetic diversity among Lassa virus strains. (5/107)
The arenavirus Lassa virus causes Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic fever that is endemic in the countries of Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea and perhaps elsewhere in West Africa. To determine the degree of genetic diversity among Lassa virus strains, partial nucleoprotein (NP) gene sequences were obtained from 54 strains and analyzed. Phylogenetic analyses showed that Lassa viruses comprise four lineages, three of which are found in Nigeria and the fourth in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. Overall strain variation in the partial NP gene sequence was found to be as high as 27% at the nucleotide level and 15% at the amino acid level. Genetic distance among Lassa strains was found to correlate with geographic distance rather than time, and no evidence of a "molecular clock" was found. A method for amplifying and cloning full-length arenavirus S RNAs was developed and used to obtain the complete NP and glycoprotein gene (GP1 and GP2) sequences for two representative Nigerian strains of Lassa virus. Comparison of full-length gene sequences for four Lassa virus strains representing the four lineages showed that the NP gene (up to 23.8% nucleotide difference and 12.0% amino acid difference) is more variable than the glycoprotein genes. Although the evolutionary order of descent within Lassa virus strains was not completely resolved, the phylogenetic analyses of full-length NP, GP1, and GP2 gene sequences suggested that Nigerian strains of Lassa virus were ancestral to strains from Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. Compared to the New World arenaviruses, Lassa and the other Old World arenaviruses have either undergone a shorter period of diverisification or are evolving at a slower rate. This study represents the first large-scale examination of Lassa virus genetic variation. (+info)Imported lassa fever in Germany: molecular characterization of a new lassa virus strain. (6/107)
We describe the isolation and characterization of a new Lassa virus strain imported into Germany by a traveler who had visited Ghana, Cote D'Ivoire, and Burkina Faso. This strain, designated "AV," originated from a region in West Africa where Lassa fever has not been reported. Viral S RNA isolated from the patient's serum was amplified and sequenced. A long-range reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction allowed amplification of the full-length (3.4 kb) S RNA. The coding sequences of strain AV differed from those of all known Lassa prototype strains (Josiah, Nigeria, and LP) by approximately 20%, mainly at third codon positions. Phylogenetically, strain AV appears to be most closely related to strain Josiah from Sierra Leone. Lassa viruses comprise a group of genetically highly diverse strains, which has implications for vaccine development. The new method for full-length S RNA amplification may facilitate identification and molecular analysis of new arenaviruses or arenavirus strains. (+info)Low levels of interleukin-8 and interferon-inducible protein-10 in serum are associated with fatal infections in acute Lassa fever. (7/107)
To investigate the role of inflammatory mediators in the pathogenesis of Lassa fever, the levels of a number of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in serum samples collected from hospitalized patients with fatal and nonfatal acute Lassa fever were compared with those from 2 control groups: patients with other febrile illnesses and uninfected individuals. Serum interleukin (IL)-8 and interferon (IFN)-inducible protein (IP)-10 levels were significantly higher in patients with acute nonfatal Lassa fever than in control subjects. In striking contrast, levels of these chemokines were low or undetectable in patients with fatal Lassa fever. IFN-gamma, IL-12, IL-6, and RANTES levels were elevated in all the febrile study groups. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels were not elevated in patients with fatal or nonfatal Lassa fever. These data indicate that acute nonfatal Lassa fever is associated with high levels of circulating IL-8 and IP-10 and that low levels or absence of these mediators correlates with a poor outcome. (+info)Mucosal immunization with Salmonella typhimurium expressing Lassa virus nucleocapsid protein cross-protects mice from lethal challenge with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus. (8/107)
OBJECTIVES: Lassa fever virus (LAS) is transmitted to man by rodent carriers and is fatal in a third of untreated cases. Our goal is to provide immune protection from Lassa fever by mucosal vaccination. STUDY DESIGN/METHODS: Mice were vaccinated intragastrically with control vectors or with vectors (vaccinia or Salmonella) expressing LAS nucleocapsid protein (NP). Mice were challenged intracranially with a lethal dose of the related arenavirus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), as a measure of the vaccine's ability to elicit cross-protection. RESULTS: Salmonella and vaccinia vectors expressing LAS NP each protected a third of the mice from lethal challenge with LCMV. All mice vaccinated with a vector expressing LCMV NP were protected as expected. CONCLUSIONS: The LAS recombinant Salmonella vector is comparable to the LAS recombinant vaccinia vector in its ability to cross-protect mice from lethal challenge. Nucleocapsid protein is an inadequate immunogen on its own, but provides sufficient cross-protection to make it a useful component of a broadly reactive arenavirus vaccine. (+info)Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus. It is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their excreta, and it can also spread from person to person via bodily fluids. The symptoms of Lassa fever typically include fever, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, headache, and vomiting. In severe cases, the disease can cause bleeding from the mouth and nose, as well as complications such as deafness and encephalitis. Lassa fever is endemic to West Africa, particularly in Nigeria, Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.
Lassa virus is an arenavirus that causes Lassa fever, a type of hemorrhagic fever. It is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their urine and droppings. The virus can also be spread through person-to-person transmission via direct contact with the blood, urine, feces, or other bodily fluids of an infected person.
The virus was first discovered in 1969 in the town of Lassa in Nigeria, hence its name. It is endemic to West Africa and is a significant public health concern in countries such as Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, and Nigeria. The symptoms of Lassa fever can range from mild to severe and may include fever, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, and vomiting. In severe cases, the virus can cause bleeding, organ failure, and death.
Prevention measures for Lassa fever include avoiding contact with rodents, storing food in rodent-proof containers, and practicing good hygiene. There is no vaccine available to prevent Lassa fever, but ribavirin, an antiviral drug, has been shown to be effective in treating the disease if administered early in the course of illness.
Arenaviridae is a family of viruses that includes several species known to cause disease in humans and animals. The name "Arenaviridae" comes from the Latin word "arena," meaning "sand," due to the sandy appearance of these viruses when viewed under an electron microscope.
The virions (complete virus particles) of Arenaviridae are typically enveloped, spherical or pleomorphic in shape, and measure between 50-300 nanometers in diameter. The genome of Arenaviridae viruses is composed of two single-stranded, negative-sense RNA segments called the L (large) segment and the S (small) segment. These segments encode for several viral proteins, including the glycoprotein (GP), nucleoprotein (NP), and the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (L).
Arenaviridae viruses are primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their excreta. Some of the most well-known human pathogens in this family include Lassa fever virus, Junín virus, Machupo virus, and Guanarito virus, which can cause severe hemorrhagic fevers. Other Arenaviridae viruses, such as lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), can cause milder illnesses in humans, including fever, rash, and meningitis.
Prevention and control of Arenaviridae infections typically involve reducing exposure to infected rodents and their excreta, as well as the development of vaccines and antiviral therapies for specific viruses in this family.
"Western Africa" is a geographical region that consists of several countries located in the western part of the African continent. The United Nations defines Western Africa as the 16 countries of Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
The region is characterized by a diverse range of cultures, languages, and ethnic groups, as well as a variety of landscapes, including coastal areas, savannas, and deserts. Western Africa has a rich history, with many ancient kingdoms and empires having existed in the region, such as the Ghana Empire, Mali Empire, and Songhai Empire.
In medical contexts, "Western Africa" may be used to describe the epidemiology, distribution, or characteristics of various health conditions or diseases that are prevalent in this geographical region. For example, certain infectious diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, and Ebola virus disease are more common in Western Africa than in other parts of the world. Therefore, medical researchers and practitioners may use the term "Western Africa" to refer to the specific health challenges and needs of the populations living in this region.
Patient isolators are specialized, controlled environments used in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of infectious agents or diseases from patients to healthcare workers and other patients. These isolators can be in the form of negative pressure rooms, glove boxes, or portable units that create a physical barrier between the patient and the environment. They are equipped with HEPA filters and airflow systems to ensure unidirectional airflow and prevent cross-contamination. Patient isolators are used for the care of patients with highly infectious diseases such as Ebola, tuberculosis, and other airborne infections.
Fever, also known as pyrexia or febrile response, is a common medical sign characterized by an elevation in core body temperature above the normal range of 36.5-37.5°C (97.7-99.5°F) due to a dysregulation of the body's thermoregulatory system. It is often a response to an infection, inflammation, or other underlying medical conditions, and it serves as a part of the immune system's effort to combat the invading pathogens or to repair damaged tissues.
Fevers can be classified based on their magnitude:
* Low-grade fever: 37.5-38°C (99.5-100.4°F)
* Moderate fever: 38-39°C (100.4-102.2°F)
* High-grade or severe fever: above 39°C (102.2°F)
It is important to note that a single elevated temperature reading does not necessarily indicate the presence of a fever, as body temperature can fluctuate throughout the day and can be influenced by various factors such as physical activity, environmental conditions, and the menstrual cycle in females. The diagnosis of fever typically requires the confirmation of an elevated core body temperature on at least two occasions or a consistently high temperature over a period of time.
While fevers are generally considered beneficial in fighting off infections and promoting recovery, extremely high temperatures or prolonged febrile states may necessitate medical intervention to prevent potential complications such as dehydration, seizures, or damage to vital organs.
'Murinae' is not a medical term. It is a taxonomic classification used in biology, specifically for a subfamily of rodents that includes mice, rats, and several related species. The term 'Murinae' comes from the family Muridae, which is the largest family of mammals, containing over 700 species.
The misconception might arise because medical professionals sometimes use common names for various animals or organisms in their diagnoses, treatments, or research. However, it is essential to clarify that 'Murinae' is a scientific classification and not a medical term.
Arenavirus is a type of virus that belongs to the family Arenaviridae. These viruses are enveloped and have a single-stranded, bi-segmented RNA genome. They are named after the Latin word "arena" which means "sand" because their virions contain ribosomes which resemble sand granules when viewed under an electron microscope.
Arenaviruses are primarily associated with rodents and can cause chronic infection in their natural hosts. Some arenaviruses can also infect humans and other animals, causing severe hemorrhagic fevers. Examples of human diseases caused by arenaviruses include Lassa fever, Argentine hemorrhagic fever, Bolivian hemorrhagic fever, and Venezuelan hemorrhagic fever.
These viruses are typically transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their excreta, but some can also be spread from person to person through close contact with an infected individual's blood or other bodily fluids. There are currently no vaccines available for most arenaviruses, and treatment is primarily supportive, focusing on managing symptoms and complications.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Guinea" is not a medical term. It is a geographical term referring to a region on the west coast of Africa, as well as the country of Equatorial Guinea and its neighboring countries. Additionally, "Guinea" can also refer to a unit of currency in Liberia.
If you have any medical concerns or questions, I would be happy to try to help answer them for you.
Arenaviridae infections are viral illnesses caused by members of the Arenaviridae family of viruses, which include several Old World and New World arenaviruses. These viruses are primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their excreta.
Old World arenaviruses include Lassa fever virus, Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), and Lujo virus, among others. They are endemic in Africa and can cause severe hemorrhagic fever with high mortality rates.
New World arenaviruses, found mainly in the Americas, include Junin virus, Machupo virus, Guanarito virus, and Sabia virus. These viruses can cause hemorrhagic fever as well, although their severity varies.
In general, Arenaviridae infections can present with a wide range of symptoms, from mild flu-like illness to severe hemorrhagic fever, depending on the specific virus and the individual's immune status. Treatment typically involves supportive care, while some viruses have specific antiviral therapies available. Prevention measures include avoiding contact with rodents and their excreta, as well as implementing public health interventions to control rodent populations in endemic areas.
Pichinde virus (PICV) is an enveloped, negative-sense, single-stranded RNA virus that belongs to the family Arenaviridae. It is primarily found in rodents, specifically the Pichinde deer mouse (Oligoryzomys fulvescens), which are endemic to South America, particularly Colombia.
PICV is not known to cause disease in humans and is often used as a model organism for studying arenaviral pathogenesis and immunity. However, accidental laboratory infections have been reported, resulting in mild febrile illness or seroconversion without symptoms. Therefore, it is recommended that appropriate biosafety measures be taken when handling this virus.
**Hemorrhagic fevers, viral** are a group of severe, potentially fatal illnesses caused by viruses that affect the body's ability to regulate its blood vessels and clotting abilities. These viruses belong to several different families including *Filoviridae* (e.g., Ebola, Marburg), *Arenaviridae* (e.g., Lassa, Machupo), *Bunyaviridae* (e.g., Hantavirus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus) and *Flaviviridae* (e.g., Dengue, Yellow Fever).
The initial symptoms are non-specific and include sudden onset of fever, fatigue, muscle aches, joint pains, headache, and vomiting. As the disease progresses, it may lead to capillary leakage, internal and external bleeding, and multi-organ failure resulting in shock and death in severe cases.
The transmission of these viruses can occur through various means depending on the specific virus. For example, some are transmitted via contact with infected animals or their urine/feces (e.g., Hantavirus), others through insect vectors like ticks (Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever) or mosquitoes (Dengue, Yellow Fever), and yet others through direct contact with infected body fluids (Ebola, Marburg).
There are no specific treatments for most viral hemorrhagic fevers. However, some experimental antiviral drugs have shown promise in treating certain types of the disease. Supportive care, such as maintaining blood pressure, replacing lost fluids and electrolytes, and managing pain, is critical to improving outcomes. Prevention measures include avoiding areas where the viruses are common, using personal protective equipment when caring for infected individuals or handling potentially contaminated materials, and controlling insect vectors.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO).
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Liberia" is not a medical term. It is a country in West Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Côte d'Ivoire and Sierra Leone. Established in 1847, it was the first African republic to proclaim its independence, and is known for its unique history of being settled by freed slaves from the United States. Is there a different term or concept you would like me to define or provide information about?
Arenaviruses, Old World, are a group of viruses within the Arenaviridae family that primarily cause disease in humans and animals in Africa and Europe. These viruses are enveloped and have a bi-segmented single-stranded RNA genome. The name "Old World" is used to distinguish them from the New World arenaviruses, which are found in the Americas.
Some of the most well-known Old World arenaviruses include Lassa fever virus, Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), and Lujo virus. These viruses can cause a range of symptoms in humans, from mild febrile illness to severe hemorrhagic fever.
Lassa fever virus is endemic in West Africa and can cause a severe and often fatal hemorrhagic fever. LCMV is found worldwide and typically causes a mild illness in humans, although it can lead to more severe disease in immunocompromised individuals. Lujo virus was first identified in 2008 in South Africa and has caused a small number of severe and often fatal hemorrhagic fever cases.
Old World arenaviruses are primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their excreta, although human-to-human transmission can also occur through close contact with an infected person's blood or bodily fluids. Prevention and control measures include avoiding contact with rodents, practicing good hygiene, and using personal protective equipment when caring for sick individuals.
Arenaviruses, New World, are a group of viruses in the Arenaviridae family that primarily infect rodents and can cause disease in humans. They are named after the Latin word "arena" which means "sand" because of the sandy-like appearance of their virions when viewed under an electron microscope.
New World arenaviruses include several different species, such as Junín virus, Machupo virus, Guanarito virus, and Sabia virus, among others. These viruses are endemic to certain regions in the Americas, particularly in South America. They are transmitted to humans through close contact with infected rodents or their excreta, and can cause severe hemorrhagic fever with high fatality rates if left untreated.
Some New World arenaviruses, such as Junín virus and Machupo virus, have been associated with outbreaks of human disease in the past, while others, like Guanarito virus and Sabia virus, have caused sporadic cases of illness. There are currently no vaccines available for most New World arenaviruses, although research is ongoing to develop effective countermeasures against these viruses.
Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) is an acute and often fatal viral hemorrhagic fever illness caused by the Marburg virus, a member of the filovirus family. It's a highly infectious disease that can be transmitted from human to human through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, tissues, or indirectly through contaminated surfaces and materials.
The incubation period for MVD ranges from 2 to 21 days, after which symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, severe malaise, and progressive weakness appear. Around the fifth day of illness, a maculopapular rash may occur, followed by diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and non-bloody stools. In some cases, patients may develop severe bleeding disorders, shock, liver failure, and multi-organ dysfunction, which can lead to death in 24-48 hours.
Currently, there are no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for MVD, but supportive care is crucial for managing the symptoms of the disease. Preventive measures such as avoiding contact with infected individuals and their bodily fluids, wearing protective clothing, and practicing good hygiene can help prevent the spread of the virus.
In the context of healthcare, "missions" and "missionaries" typically refer to efforts by religious organizations or individuals to provide medical services and health education in underserved communities, often in low-income countries. The missionaries are usually healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, or public health specialists, who volunteer their time and expertise to improve the health and wellbeing of people in need.
The missions can take various forms, including:
1. Short-term medical missions: These are typically one- to two-week trips during which a team of healthcare professionals provides clinical services, surgeries, or health education in a community that has limited access to care.
2. Long-term medical missions: In these cases, missionaries may spend several months to a few years living and working in a community to provide ongoing healthcare services and build local capacity.
3. Sponsored medical missions: Some religious organizations or churches may sponsor the construction of hospitals, clinics, or health centers in underserved areas, which are then staffed by missionary healthcare providers.
4. Community health programs: Missionaries might also engage in public health initiatives focused on disease prevention, health promotion, and capacity building within communities. These programs can include water and sanitation projects, immunization campaigns, maternal and child health interventions, or HIV/AIDS education and treatment efforts.
It is important to note that while missions and missionaries have played a significant role in providing healthcare services to underserved populations, their work can also be associated with cultural insensitivity, paternalism, and the imposition of Western values and beliefs on local communities. As such, it is crucial for missionaries to approach their work with humility, respect for local customs and traditions, and a commitment to empowering and collaborating with community members.
A disease reservoir refers to a population or group of living organisms, including humans, animals, and even plants, that can naturally carry and transmit a particular pathogen (disease-causing agent) without necessarily showing symptoms of the disease themselves. These hosts serve as a source of infection for other susceptible individuals, allowing the pathogen to persist and circulate within a community or environment.
Disease reservoirs can be further classified into:
1. **Primary (or Main) Reservoir**: This refers to the species that primarily harbors and transmits the pathogen, contributing significantly to its natural ecology and maintaining its transmission cycle. For example, mosquitoes are the primary reservoirs for many arboviruses like dengue, Zika, and chikungunya viruses.
2. **Amplifying Hosts**: These hosts can become infected with the pathogen and experience a high rate of replication, leading to an increased concentration of the pathogen in their bodies. This allows for efficient transmission to other susceptible hosts or vectors. For instance, birds are amplifying hosts for West Nile virus, as they can become viremic (have high levels of virus in their blood) and infect feeding mosquitoes that then transmit the virus to other animals and humans.
3. **Dead-end Hosts**: These hosts may become infected with the pathogen but do not contribute significantly to its transmission cycle, as they either do not develop sufficient quantities of the pathogen to transmit it or do not come into contact with potential vectors or susceptible hosts. For example, humans are dead-end hosts for many zoonotic diseases like rabies, as they cannot transmit the virus to other humans.
Understanding disease reservoirs is crucial in developing effective strategies for controlling and preventing infectious diseases, as it helps identify key species and environments that contribute to their persistence and transmission.
Q fever is a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. It is characterized by acute or chronic flu-like symptoms, pneumonia, and hepatitis. The bacteria are primarily transmitted to humans through inhalation of contaminated dust or aerosols from infected animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats. Q fever can also be transmitted through consumption of unpasteurized milk or direct contact with infected animals. It is often asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic in animals but can cause severe disease in humans.
The acute form of Q fever typically presents with sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, fatigue, muscle pain, and cough. Some patients may also develop pneumonia or hepatitis. The chronic form of the disease is less common but more serious, often affecting people with compromised immune systems. Chronic Q fever can lead to endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of the heart, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Diagnosis of Q fever typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, serological testing, and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) assays. Treatment usually involves antibiotics such as doxycycline or fluoroquinolones for several weeks to months, depending on the severity and duration of the illness. Prevention measures include avoiding contact with infected animals, wearing protective clothing and masks when handling animal products, and pasteurizing milk before consumption.
RNA viruses are a type of virus that contain ribonucleic acid (RNA) as their genetic material, as opposed to deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). RNA viruses replicate by using an enzyme called RNA-dependent RNA polymerase to transcribe and replicate their RNA genome.
There are several different groups of RNA viruses, including:
1. Negative-sense single-stranded RNA viruses: These viruses have a genome that is complementary to the mRNA and must undergo transcription to produce mRNA before translation can occur. Examples include influenza virus, measles virus, and rabies virus.
2. Positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses: These viruses have a genome that can serve as mRNA and can be directly translated into protein after entry into the host cell. Examples include poliovirus, rhinoviruses, and coronaviruses.
3. Double-stranded RNA viruses: These viruses have a genome consisting of double-stranded RNA and use a complex replication strategy involving both transcription and reverse transcription. Examples include rotaviruses and reoviruses.
RNA viruses are known to cause a wide range of human diseases, ranging from the common cold to more severe illnesses such as hepatitis C, polio, and COVID-19. Due to their high mutation rates and ability to adapt quickly to new environments, RNA viruses can be difficult to control and treat with antiviral drugs or vaccines.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Nigeria" is not a medical term. It is a country located in West Africa, and it is the most populous country in Africa. If you have any questions about medical conditions or terms, I would be happy to help clarify those for you.
Yellow fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease that's transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The "yellow" in the name refers to the jaundice that can occur in some patients, resulting from liver damage caused by the virus. The disease is endemic in tropical regions of Africa and Central and South America.
The yellow fever virus is a single-stranded RNA virus that belongs to the Flaviviridae family, genus Flavivirus. It's closely related to other mosquito-borne viruses like dengue and Zika. The virus has three distinct geographical variants (West African, East African, and South American), each with different epidemiological patterns and clinical features.
The incubation period for yellow fever is typically 3 to 6 days after infection. The initial symptoms include fever, chills, headache, back pain, myalgia, and fatigue. Most patients recover after this initial phase, but around 15% of those infected enter a more severe phase characterized by high fever, jaundice, abdominal pain, vomiting, bleeding, and often rapid death within 7 to 10 days.
There is no specific treatment for yellow fever, and management is focused on supportive care, including fluid replacement, blood transfusions, and addressing any complications that arise. Prevention relies on vaccination and mosquito control measures. The yellow fever vaccine is safe and highly effective, providing immunity in 95% of those who receive it. A single dose offers lifelong protection in most individuals. Mosquito control efforts, such as reducing breeding sites and using insecticide-treated materials, can help prevent the spread of the virus in affected areas.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Sierra Leone" is not a medical term or concept. It is an African country located on the western coast of the continent, known for its rich natural resources and diverse culture. If you have any questions about medical topics or health-related issues, I would be happy to try to help answer them!
Typhoid fever is an acute illness caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi. It is characterized by sustained fever, headache, constipation or diarrhea, rose-colored rash (in some cases), abdominal pain, and weakness. The bacteria are spread through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with an infected person's feces. If left untreated, typhoid fever can lead to severe complications and even be fatal. It is diagnosed through blood, stool, or urine tests and treated with antibiotics. Vaccination is available for prevention.
Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is an Old World arenavirus that primarily infects rodents, particularly the house mouse (Mus musculus). The virus is harbored in these mice without causing any apparent disease, but they can shed the virus in their urine, droppings, and saliva.
Humans can contract LCMV through close contact with infected rodents or their excreta, inhalation of aerosolized virus, or ingestion of contaminated food or water. In humans, LCMV infection can cause a mild to severe illness called lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM), which primarily affects the meninges (the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and, less frequently, the brain and spinal cord itself.
The incubation period for LCMV infection is typically 1-2 weeks, after which symptoms may appear. Initial symptoms include fever, malaise, headache, muscle aches, and nausea. In some cases, the illness may progress to involve the meninges (meningitis), resulting in neck stiffness, light sensitivity, and altered mental status. In rare instances, LCMV infection can lead to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or myelitis (inflammation of the spinal cord), causing more severe neurological symptoms such as seizures, paralysis, or long-term neurological damage.
Most individuals who contract LCMV recover completely within a few weeks to months; however, immunocompromised individuals are at risk for developing severe and potentially fatal complications from the infection. Pregnant women infected with LCMV may also face an increased risk of miscarriage or fetal abnormalities.
Prevention measures include avoiding contact with rodents, especially house mice, and their excreta, maintaining good hygiene, and using appropriate personal protective equipment when handling potentially contaminated materials. There is no specific treatment for LCMV infection; management typically involves supportive care to alleviate symptoms and address complications as they arise.
Viral diseases are illnesses caused by the infection and replication of viruses in host organisms. These infectious agents are obligate parasites, meaning they rely on the cells of other living organisms to survive and reproduce. Viruses can infect various types of hosts, including animals, plants, and microorganisms, causing a wide range of diseases with varying symptoms and severity.
Once a virus enters a host cell, it takes over the cell's machinery to produce new viral particles, often leading to cell damage or death. The immune system recognizes the viral components as foreign and mounts an immune response to eliminate the infection. This response can result in inflammation, fever, and other symptoms associated with viral diseases.
Examples of well-known viral diseases include:
1. Influenza (flu) - caused by influenza A, B, or C viruses
2. Common cold - usually caused by rhinoviruses or coronaviruses
3. HIV/AIDS - caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
4. Measles - caused by measles morbillivirus
5. Hepatitis B and C - caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), respectively
6. Herpes simplex - caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2)
7. Chickenpox and shingles - both caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV)
8. Rabies - caused by rabies lyssavirus
9. Ebola - caused by ebolaviruses
10. COVID-19 - caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)
Prevention and treatment strategies for viral diseases may include vaccination, antiviral medications, and supportive care to manage symptoms while the immune system fights off the infection.
Dystroglycans are a type of protein that play a crucial role in the structure and function of the muscle membrane (sarcolemma). They are an essential component of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex, which helps maintain the stability and integrity of the sarcolemma during muscle contraction and relaxation.
Dystroglycans consist of two subunits: alpha-dystroglycan and beta-dystroglycan. Alpha-dystroglycan is a large, heavily glycosylated protein that extends from the intracellular space to the extracellular matrix, where it interacts with various extracellular matrix proteins such as laminin and agrin. Beta-dystroglycan, on the other hand, spans the muscle membrane and binds to dystrophin, a cytoskeletal protein that helps maintain the structural integrity of the sarcolemma.
Mutations in genes encoding for proteins involved in the glycosylation of alpha-dystroglycan can lead to a group of genetic disorders known as congenital muscular dystrophies, which are characterized by muscle weakness, hypotonia, and developmental delays. These disorders include Walker-Warburg syndrome, Fukuyama congenital muscular dystrophy, and Muscle-Eye-Brain disease, among others.
Antibodies, viral are proteins produced by the immune system in response to an infection with a virus. These antibodies are capable of recognizing and binding to specific antigens on the surface of the virus, which helps to neutralize or destroy the virus and prevent its replication. Once produced, these antibodies can provide immunity against future infections with the same virus.
Viral antibodies are typically composed of four polypeptide chains - two heavy chains and two light chains - that are held together by disulfide bonds. The binding site for the antigen is located at the tip of the Y-shaped structure, formed by the variable regions of the heavy and light chains.
There are five classes of antibodies in humans: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM. Each class has a different function and is distributed differently throughout the body. For example, IgG is the most common type of antibody found in the bloodstream and provides long-term immunity against viruses, while IgA is found primarily in mucous membranes and helps to protect against respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.
In addition to their role in the immune response, viral antibodies can also be used as diagnostic tools to detect the presence of a specific virus in a patient's blood or other bodily fluids.
Viremia is a medical term that refers to the presence of viruses in the bloodstream. It occurs when a virus successfully infects a host and replicates within the body's cells, releasing new viral particles into the blood. This condition can lead to various clinical manifestations depending on the specific virus involved and the immune response of the infected individual. Some viral infections result in asymptomatic viremia, while others can cause severe illness or even life-threatening conditions. The detection of viremia is crucial for diagnosing certain viral infections and monitoring disease progression or treatment effectiveness.
Lassa fever
Lassa mammarenavirus
Robovirus
Ebola virus disease in Mali
List of human disease case fatality rates
Patricia Ann Webb
Joseph B. McCormick
Health in Nigeria
Negative-strand RNA virus
Coppetts Wood Hospital
Social history of viruses
Viral hemorrhagic fever
Panguma
Saclepea
Christian Happi
National Biotechnology Development Agency
African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases
Uruan
Mariatu Bala Usman
Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health
History of virology
Jordi Casals i Ariet
Sonja Buckley
Natal multimammate mouse
Marburg virus disease
List of epidemics and pandemics
Public Health Agency of Canada
Augustus Aikhomu
Biological warfare
List of Ebola outbreaks
Lassa Fever | CDC
Disease Outbreak News: Lassa Fever in Nigeria | PAGNet
Lassa fever - Wikipedia
Lassa Fever | CDC
Fighting Lassa fever
LASSA FEVER - NIGERIA (09): (DELTA) - One Health Initiative
LASSA FEVER - WEST AFRICA (42): NIGERIA - One Health Initiative
New Jersey Lassa Fever Death Reveals Holes In Ebola Monitoring System | KUER
Lassa Fever and South American Hemorrhagic Fevers - Infections - Merck Manuals Consumer Version
Here's What You Need To Know About The Deadly Lassa Fever Outbreak In Nigeria
One-Year Retrospective Review of Psychiatric Consultations in Lassa Fever, Southern Nigeria
Zika Isn't The Only Outbreak; Nigeria Struggles To Rein In Lassa Fever | Utah Public Radio
45 hospitals with the quietest patient rooms | Man dies from Lassa fever in NJ: 5 things to know | NC hospital closes...
Case Report: COVID-19 and Lassa Fever Coinfection in an Ebola Suspected Patient in Guinea in: The American Journal of Tropical...
Edo records 5 new cases of Lassa fever, 3 more deaths as fatalities reach 23 - Nigerian Observer
VHFC researchers describe predictors of Lassa fever outcome - VHFC
Zalgen Awarded CEPI Contract to Provide Test Kits for Largest Ever Lassa Fever Study in West Africa - Colorado Bioscience...
Lassa Fever - Infectious Diseases - MSD Manual Professional Edition
Lassa fever kills 85 Nigerians in 6 weeks - Daily Trust
Benue records 2 deaths, 17 cases of Lassa fever - Daily Trust
Prevention Guidelines Titles
Lassa fever | Loop PNG
Lassa Fever: another infectious menace | Afr. J. Clin. Exp. Microbiol;11(1): 144-155, 2010. | AIM
Lassa Fever Has Killed 149 Nigerians In The Last One Year
ArboCat Virus: Lassa (LASV)
Hemorrhagic Fevers: MedlinePlus
Infected with Lassa virus7
- 50 hospital staff members (including nofl uorescent antibody test using Vero those who had had contact with the cells infected with Lassa virus. (cdc.gov)
- Humans usually become infected with Lassa virus from exposure to urine or feces of infected Mastomys rats, unique to several countries in Africa. (medscape.com)
- About 80% of people who become infected with Lassa virus have no symptoms. (who.int)
- In a paper published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , UTMB's scientists document how a new drug from Zalgen Labs successfully cured cynomolgus monkeys infected with Lassa virus. (utmb.edu)
- The results indicated Arevirumab-3 potentially could be used to treat humans infected with Lassa virus. (utmb.edu)
- The rodent is often found in or around human habitats, and people become infected with Lassa virus through direct contact with rodent urine and stool. (nih.gov)
- 4/5 of people infected with Lassa virus will present no symptoms. (nursinganswers.net)
Hemorrhagic fevers4
- Diagnosis is difficult because it can be confused with other infections such as severe malaria, typhoid fever, and other viral hemorrhagic fevers. (medscape.com)
- Lassa fever can be difficult to distinguish clinically from other viral hemorrhagic fevers, such as Ebola virus disease. (wikipedia.org)
- Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) are a group of illnesses caused by four families of viruses. (medlineplus.gov)
- While viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs), like Lassa fever, are very serious, they are not common in the U.S. However, it is important for healthcare providers to understand high consequence viruses, like Lassa fever, so they can appropriately diagnose and care for their patients. (netecweb.org)
West Africa12
- Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness of 2-21 days duration that occurs in West Africa. (who.int)
- Lassa fever is endemic to West Africa where these rats are common. (nih.gov)
- Lassa fever is relatively common in West Africa including the countries of Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Ghana. (wikipedia.org)
- Reference Lassa fever is an often fatal arenavirus infection that occurs mostly in West Africa. (msdmanuals.com)
- New research out of the University of Texas Medical Branch potentially points to an effective treatment for Lassa fever, a dangerous, often fatal disease common to much of West Africa but considered a major threat to global health. (utmb.edu)
- Lassa virus has a high level of genetic diversity across much of West Africa," said Dr. Robert Cross, associate professor in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology and one of the authors of the study. (utmb.edu)
- For example, Lassa fever is limited to rural areas of West Africa where rats and mice carry the virus. (medlineplus.gov)
- Lassa fever is endemic to West Africa, where Mastomys natalensis rodents, a primary animal reservoir of Lassa virus, are common. (nih.gov)
- Lassa fever is commonly found in parts of West Africa including Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Nigeria. (nih.gov)
- BackgroundLassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic fever endemic in parts of west Africa. (ox.ac.uk)
- Lassa fever is endemic in west Africa, where it probably kills several thousand people each year. (academicoo.com)
- The reservoir of Lassa virus is the multimammate mouse (Mastomys natalensis), a highly commensal species in West Africa. (socialscienceinaction.org)
Endemic7
- Lassa fever is known to be endemic in Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone, but probably exists in other West African countries as well. (who.int)
- Based on serologic data, indigenous people in endemic areas have a very high rate of infection-much higher than their rate of hospitalization for Lassa fever-suggesting that many infections are mild and self-limited. (msdmanuals.com)
- Endemic to Nigeria, Lassa fever belongs to the same family as the Ebola and Marburg viruses, but is much less deadly. (channelstv.com)
- Lassa Fever (LF) is a haemorrhagic virus endemic in Western Africa. (nursinganswers.net)
- Lassa fever is endemic in Nigeria and the annual peak of Lassa fever cases is typically observed during the dry season (December-April). (ritaduba.com)
- While Lassa fever is endemic in Nigeria and the country has developed an increased capacity for the prevention and control of Lassa fever outbreaks, including strengthened surveillance, diagnostic and treatment capacity, several factors contribute to the current elevated risk level. (ritaduba.com)
- Lassa fever is endemic in several west African countries. (netecweb.org)
Confirmed Lassa fever cases6
- By 18 March, 3675 contacts of the 376 confirmed Lassa fever cases in Nigeria had been identified and more than three-quarters had completed their 21 days of monitoring. (who.int)
- Confirmed Lassa fever cases in Nigeria spiked over 2017 to 2018. (nih.gov)
- In Nigeria, from 3 to 30 January 2022, 211 laboratory confirmed Lassa fever cases including 40 deaths (case fatality ratio: 19%) have been cumulatively reported in 14 of the 36 Nigerian states and the Federal Capital Territory across the country (Figure 1). (ritaduba.com)
- Weekly number of reported confirmed Lassa Fever cases and deaths in Nigeria during the epidemiological weeks one (commencing 2 January) through four (commencing 23 January) in 2022. (ritaduba.com)
- The NCDC noted that 72 per cent of all confirmed Lassa fever cases were reported from Ondo , Edo and Bauchi states while 28 per cent were reported from two states with confirmed Lassa fever cases. (naijablitznews.com)
- A statement issued by the Director General of the NCDC, Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, yesterday, stated that the measure became necessary given the increase in the number of confirmed Lassa fever cases across the country and a joint risk assessment with partners and sister agencies. (africahealthtimes.com)
Patients with Lassa fever3
- When caring for patients with Lassa fever, further transmission of the disease through person-to-person contact or nosocomial routes can be avoided by taking preventive precautions against contact with patient secretions (called VHF isolation precautions or barrier nursing methods). (cdc.gov)
- Identify the parameters for clinical management of patients with Lassa fever. (netecweb.org)
- Describe my role, responsibility, and scope of practice as a team member in diagnosing and treating patients with Lassa fever. (netecweb.org)
Centers for Diseas1
- About 15 to 20 percent of people hospitalized with Lassa fever die from the disease, but only 1 percent of all Lassa virus infections result in death, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (nih.gov)
20234
- The NCDC reported that from January 1 to April 9, 2023, a total of 869 confirmed cases of Lassa fever had been reported from 26 states and 101 local government units. (potpourrinews.com)
- This information was conveyed through the NCDC's official website on Tuesday, as part of its Lassa Fever Situation Report for Week 37 (September 11 - 17, 2023). (com.ng)
- Tragically, in 2023, 49 healthcare workers across the country contracted Lassa fever. (com.ng)
- The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention made this known in its Lassa fever situation report for week nine spanning January to March 5, 2023. (naijablitznews.com)
Rodents5
- Primary transmission of the Lassa virus from its host to humans can be prevented by avoiding contact with Mastomys rodents, especially in the geographic regions where outbreaks occur. (cdc.gov)
- The Lassa virus is carried by rodents and transmitted to humans through contact with urine or droppings of infected rodents. (vanguardngr.com)
- The fever is caused by Lassa virus, which is normally transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated with urine or feces from infected rodents. (nih.gov)
- It also stressed the importance of preventing Lassa fever through measures such as avoiding contact with rodents and their excreta, maintaining good personal hygiene, and taking precautions when caring for infected individuals. (com.ng)
- Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodents infected with Lassa fever virus. (africahealthtimes.com)
Vaccine for Lassa fever2
- Research is presently under way to develop a vaccine for Lassa fever. (cdc.gov)
- There is no approved vaccine for Lassa fever, whose symptoms are similar to Ebola. (courthousenews.com)
Treatment of Lassa fever2
- It no doubt will serve as further support of the value of continued investment in immunotherapeutics research for the treatment of Lassa fever in humans. (utmb.edu)
- Background Only one recommendation currently exists for the treatment of Lassa fever (LF), which is ribavirin administered in conjunction with supportive care. (ox.ac.uk)
201810
- UK Responds to Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria - Medscape - Mar 06, 2018. (medscape.com)
- In 2018, Nigeria experienced its largest-ever Lassa fever outbreak, with 514 confirmed cases and 134 deaths from Jan. 1 through Sept. 30, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control . (nih.gov)
- A surge in Lassa fever cases in Nigeria in 2018 does not appear to be linked to a single virus strain or increased human-to-human transmission, according to a genomic analysis published in The New England Journal of Medicine . (nih.gov)
- The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported an unusually large increase in Lassa fever cases in 2018, with 523 laboratory-confirmed cases and 135 deaths from January 1 through October 7. (nih.gov)
- Public health officials were concerned that the Lassa fever outbreak in Nigeria in 2018 might be driven by a previously unknown factor, such as a new or more virulent Lassa virus strain, according to the authors. (nih.gov)
- The authors analyzed Lassa virus genomes of 129 patients from the 2017-2018 outbreak and from 91 patients from the 2015-2017 seasons. (nih.gov)
- They discovered that Lassa genomes from 2018 were drawn from a diverse range of viruses previously observed in Nigeria rather than from a single dominant strain. (nih.gov)
- Genomic Analysis of Lassa Virus during an Increase in Cases in Nigeria in 2018. (nih.gov)
- The Lassa fever outbreak in Ondo State in 2018 recorded high morbidity and mortality . (bvsalud.org)
- We used univariable and multivariable logistic regression models to investigate an association between baseline characteristics and mortality at day 30.FindingsBetween April 5, 2018, and March 15, 2020, 534 patients with confirmed Lassa fever were admitted to hospital, of whom 510 (96%) gave consent and were included in the analysis. (ox.ac.uk)
Outbreak of Lassa fever3
- To help mitigate the outbreak of Lassa fever and other diseases, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) through the Abuja Markets Management Limited (AMML) has commenced fumigation exercise in all its markets in the Territory. (peoplesdailyng.com)
- Also speaking, Ismaila Haruna Dankogi, of Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), maintained that residents of the FCT have no need to worry about any outbreak of Lassa fever, as the board has always been involve in the routine cleaning markets and other places. (peoplesdailyng.com)
- An outbreak of Lassa fever has been reported in Ondo State. (xclusive.ng)
Yellow fever6
- Lassa fever is difficult to distinguish from many other diseases which cause fever, including malaria, shigellosis, typhoid fever, yellow fever and other viral haemorrhagic fevers. (who.int)
- Other conditions that may present similarly include Ebola, malaria, typhoid fever, and yellow fever. (wikipedia.org)
- Polio, Lassa and Yellow fever: Where is the political will? (kff.org)
- The most prominent and reoccurring have been polio, Lassa fever, and yellow fever. (kff.org)
- The findings suggest that viral infections, such as outbreaks of Ebola, yellow fever, and Lassa fever, may have played an important role over centuries in driving genetic differences on the African continent. (nih.gov)
- These include the Ebola and Marburg, Lassa fever, and yellow fever viruses. (medlineplus.gov)
Deaths7
- According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, there have been 1,081 suspected cases of Lassa fever and 90 deaths between the 1st January and the 25th February this year. (medscape.com)
- So far, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has confirmed thatlassa fever has hit 21 states in Nigeria with a total of 106 deaths and 651 persons infected. (com.ng)
- In contrast, noticeably less Lassa fever cases with less geographical spread were reported for the same period (epidemiological weeks 1- 4) in 2021 (54 confirmed cases, including 12 deaths, from 8 States). (ritaduba.com)
- According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, there have been 151 Lassa fever deaths in Nigeria so far this year, up from 148 the year before. (potpourrinews.com)
- The Federal Government has put the number of reported cases of Lassa Fever outbreak in eight states at 76 with 35 deaths already recorded and 14 cases confirmed by laboratories. (tvcentertainment.tv)
- Three people have died from Lassa fever and 13 others afflicted in five states across the country in the last two weeks.According to latest figures from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) published yesterday, the three new deaths occurred, one each in Plateau, Edo and Gombe states. (otowngist.com)
- Dr Kunden Deyin, the Plateau Commissioner for Health says the state has recorded 28 new cases of Lassa fever with 10 deaths. (dailyadvent.com)
Effective treatment for Lassa fever1
- Ribavirin is effective treatment for Lassa fever is given early in the course of clinical illness. (who.int)
World Health Organ2
- The overall Lassa virus infection case-fatality rate is about 1 percent, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), but that rate rises to 15 percent for patients hospitalized with severe cases of Lassa fever. (nih.gov)
- The Lassa virus, a member of the arenavirus family of viruses, is said to be the cause of Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic sickness, according to the World Health Organization. (potpourrinews.com)
Centre9
- Just last week, the Centre for Diseases Control, CDC, confirmed a diagnosis of Lassa fever in a patient admitted to a hospital in Minnesota. (vanguardngr.com)
- Nigeria has set up an emergency response centre to contain rising cases of Lassa fever after 26 people were killed in the past three weeks, the country's disease control agency said. (channelstv.com)
- The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) said on Wednesday it had activated the national Lassa fever Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in response to the outbreak in some parts of the country. (channelstv.com)
- The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) said this in its latest Lassa fever situation report for week 29, which showed that there were 857 confirmed cases of the disease in the country. (dailytrust.com)
- any persons suspecting lassa should immediately report at the health centre near you. (com.ng)
- We aimed to document baseline characteristics and outcomes for patients hospitalised with Lassa fever in Nigeria.MethodsWe did a prospective cohort study (LASCOPE) at the Federal Medical Centre in Owo, Nigeria. (ox.ac.uk)
- All pleas and entreaties to Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and other federal agencies to come and support us to save our people from Lassa Fever, have been ignored. (gbetutv.com)
- The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a total of 1,068 Lassa fever cases spread across 112 local government areas within 28 states of the federation. (com.ng)
- The agency emphasized that the National Lassa Fever Multi-partner, Multi-sectoral Emergency Operations Centre has been activated to oversee response activities at all levels. (com.ng)
Infections7
- About 80% of human Lassa fever infections are mild or asymptomatic. (who.int)
- About 1% of all Lassa virus infections result in death. (wikipedia.org)
- This creates a real challenge for therapeutic developers as it raises the question of whether a single drug could be used to treat all Lassa virus infections. (utmb.edu)
- clinical studies on filariasis and clinical studies on HIV/TB co-infections, and more recently Ebola Virus Disease, Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus, and COVID-19. (nih.gov)
- It is just a coincidence that it is happening now when there is a loud cry about sensitization on Lassa fever and coronavirus infections. (peoplesdailyng.com)
- Given that 90-95% of human infections are due to indirect exposure (through food or household items contaminated by infected rats' excreta) or direct contact with infected Mastomys rats, the very high density and high circulation of Lassa fever virus in the rat population poses a risk for further human infection during the dry season. (ritaduba.com)
- Approximately 80% of Lassa virus infections in humans are either asymptomatic or mild, however, infection in the remaining 20% manifests as a febrile illness of variable severity associated with multiple organ dysfunctions with or without haemorrhage. (ritaduba.com)
Difficult to distinguish1
- These symptoms can be difficult to distinguish from other haemorrhagic fevers (such as Ebola) or other febrile diseases (Malaria). (nursinganswers.net)
NCDC2
- The researchers reported their findings to the NCDC and other public health officials in real time to help respond to the high number of Lassa fever cases in Nigeria. (nih.gov)
- The states are Edo -20, Ondo-eight, Ebonyi-three, Kogi -three, Bauchi-one and Adamawa-one).To further address the situation, the NCDC has planned a Lassa fever international conference for January 16 to 17, 2019 and Lassa fever national multi-partner, multi-agency Technical Working Group (TWG) to coordinate response activities at all levels. (otowngist.com)
Outbreaks2
- The International Atomic Energy Agency convened a workshop last week to explore how nuclear techniques backed by the IAEA's Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action (ZODIAC) initiative could be used to avoid outbreaks of monkeypox and Lassa fever. (ans.org)
- These factors combined warrant the need for further improvement and support of the country's capacity to detect and respond to Lassa fever outbreaks. (ritaduba.com)
Caused by Lassa virus1
- Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness caused by Lassa virus, a member of the arenavirus family of viruses. (who.int)
Case of Lassa fever1
- A fatal case of Lassa fever in London, January 2009. (nih.gov)
Heard of Lassa fever1
- It feels like it's not the first time I heard of Lassa fever then again it felt like it. (favoritephysician.org)
Positive for Lassa fever3
- The victim, who was returning to the United States from a West African country, exhibited symptoms of fever and confusion and blood samples submitted to CDC tested positive for Lassa fever. (vanguardngr.com)
- In this observational study, we analysed left-over blood samples from patients who tested positive for Lassa fever at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, between January, 2014, and April, 2017. (netecweb.org)
- Of 554 patients who tested positive for Lassa fever during the study period, 201 (131 in the primary dataset and 70 in the secondary dataset) were included in the biomarker analysis, of whom 74 (49 in the primary dataset and 25 in the secondary dataset) had died and 127 (82 in the primary dataset and 45 in the secondary dataset) had survived. (netecweb.org)
Knowledge on Lassa fever1
- In this article the authors give an overview of the current knowledge on Lassa fever (ecology, epidemiology and distribution) and the importance of future socio-ecological changes in the increase of Lassa fever burden. (lassafever.info)
Transmission of Lassa fever2
- Hilary Bower, who will be leading the UK team, says in a statement: "There is still much to learn about what drives the transmission of Lassa fever and the different ways it can affect people. (medscape.com)
- Person-to-person transmission of Lassa fever has occurred in health care settings after exposure to blood and secretions of infected patients. (who.int)
Viruses7
- These surface proteins prompt an immune response against both Lassa and rabies viruses. (nih.gov)
- The Lassa virus is a member of the Arenaviridae family of viruses. (wikipedia.org)
- A recent study that identified the top 50 agents with pandemic potential, Lassa fever was ranked first among known viruses regarded as a threat for zoonotic spillover. (utmb.edu)
- Using nuclear science and technology, the IAEA will work together with ZODIAC national laboratories in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America to adjust the diagnostic algorithms for monkeypox and Lassa fever to improve the global understanding of how the viruses spread from species to species. (ans.org)
- These scientific teams are now developing a research program to screen for and study other hemorrhagic fever viruses in the country. (nih.gov)
- This concern led a team of researchers, including members of the NIH Common Fund-supported Human Heredity and Health in Africa ( H3Africa (link is external) ) program, to conduct a genetic analysis of viruses in samples collected from Lassa-infected patients. (nih.gov)
- It is part of the Arenaviridae family along with other viruses which cause haemorrhagic fever such as Machupa virus [2] . (nursinganswers.net)
Illness6
- Lassa fever is an animal-borne, or zoonotic, acute viral illness spread by the common African rat. (cdc.gov)
- Although Lassa fever is often a mild illness, some people experience serious symptoms, such as hemorrhage (severe bleeding) and shock. (nih.gov)
- Illness begins insidiously with a nonspecific syndrome of fever, weakness, malaise, and joint and/or lumbar pain. (medscape.com)
- Lassa virus is a single stranded RNA virus causing Lassa Fever (LF), an acute haemorrhagic illness [1] . (nursinganswers.net)
- Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness of 1-4 weeks duration. (com.ng)
- Lassa Fever is a zoonotic hemorrhagic illness predominant in areas across Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia, and southern Mali. (socialscienceinaction.org)
Causes Lassa fever2
- The Lassa virus, shown here, causes Lassa fever. (cdc.gov)
- Findings are also not ruling out the possible source of infection from consumption of meat infected with the Lassa virus which causes Lassa fever, another severe viral disease that produces hemorrhagic symptoms similar to that seen in infected persons. (vanguardngr.com)
Symptoms of lassa fever2
- Symptoms of lassa fever include: gradual onset of persistent fever( that does not respond to treatment with panadol or antibiotics), general weakness and feeling unwell. (com.ng)
- water /or use of hand sanitisers when appropriate and visit the nearest health facility if you notice any of the signs and symptoms of Lassa fever as mentioned earlier, and avoid self-medication. (africahealthtimes.com)
Marburg1
- The clinical picture of the haemorrhagic disease, which is in the class of Marburg haemorrhagic fever- is nightmarish. (vanguardngr.com)
Humans11
- The virus may also be spread between humans through direct contact with the blood, urine, feces, or other bodily secretions of someone infected with Lassa fever. (medscape.com)
- Lassa fever can also be spread between humans through direct contact with the blood, pharyngeal secretions, urine, faeces or other body secretions of an infected person. (who.int)
- The Lassa virus is transmitted to humans via contact with food or household items contaminated with rodent urine or faeces. (who.int)
- This virus has both a large and a small genome section, with four lineages identified to date: Josiah (Sierra Leone), GA391 (Nigeria), LP (Nigeria) and strain AV. Lassa virus commonly spreads to humans from other animals, specifically the Natal multimammate mouse or African rat, also called the Natal multimammate rat (Mastomys natalensis). (wikipedia.org)
- Lassa virus is transmitted to man by infected multi-mammate rats and humans become infected from direct contact with the urine and faeces of the rat carrying the virus. (dailytrust.com)
- Over three quarters 2, 537 (84.8%) of respondents were aware of Lassa fever of which 2, 363 (93.1%) knew that multimammate rat transmits the disease to humans . (bvsalud.org)
- Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic fever that is primarily transmitted to humans via contact with food or household items contaminated with urine or faeces from Mastomys rats. (ritaduba.com)
- As aforementioned, the peak of Lassa fever cases in humans typically occurs in the dry season (December-April) and follows the reproduction cycle of the Mastomys rats in the wet season (May - November). (ritaduba.com)
- The most common way for humans to contract the Lassa virus is through contact with food or household items that have been tainted by the urine or feces of infected Mastomys rats. (potpourrinews.com)
- Humans usually become infected with the Lassa virus through exposure to food or household items contaminated with the urine or faeces of infected Mastomys rats. (naijablitznews.com)
- In late February/early March 2016 in Benin, (foreground) Carine, a student at the district school in Tchaourou, smiles as she holds up her slate with the correct answer Lassa Fever to the question posed by her teacher: What disease is making people in our town sick these days and is being transmitted from rats to humans and from person to person? (socialscienceinaction.org)
Incubation period4
- The incubation period for Lassa fever ranges from 2 to 21 days. (who.int)
- The incubation period for Lassa fever is 5 to 16 days. (msdmanuals.com)
- After an incubation period of 8-13 days, a nonspecific syndrome of fever, weakness, malaise, joint and/or lumbar pain, nausea and vomiting, and cough may begin. (medscape.com)
- LF has an incubation period between 6-212 days and, for the 20% who do experience symptoms, the early symptoms increase in intensity gradually starting from a fever, general malaise and other non-specific symptoms. (nursinganswers.net)
Cases13
- Lassa fever is named after the town in Nigeria where the first cases occurred. (cdc.gov)
- Lassa Fever, From 2005 through 2008, 10 cases bers were involved in the outbreak. (cdc.gov)
- Cases 7 to 10 occurred in Abuja epidemiologic situation is less clear rus-specifi c IgM during his convales- and Jos from December 2007 through because no surveillance system is in cent phase indicates that he had Lassa March 2008. (cdc.gov)
- Most cases manifest as mild fever, headache, and malaise. (medscape.com)
- This prompted the research team to analyze Lassa virus genomes from patient samples to determine if genomic data signatures could explain the surge in cases. (nih.gov)
- of course the list will not be exhaustive as new cases of lassa fever are diagnosed everyday in the various states across the federation coupled with the fact that some cases are misdiagnosed or not reported. (com.ng)
- These include an increase in the number of confirmed cases compared to previous epidemic seasons, gaps in surveillance and varying degrees of subnational response capacity, delays in sample shipment for laboratory testing, a decrease of case management capacity due to conversion of dedicated Lassa fever facilities into COVID-19 health-care facilities and suboptimal IPC procedures. (ritaduba.com)
- The Commissioner for Health in Plateau, Dr Ndam Lar, on Tuesday, said that the state had recorded seven confirmed cases of Lassa fever from November 2019 till date. (com.ng)
- The increasing number of Lassa Fever cases in the State as well as measures to contain the spread of the deadly disease were deliberated. (gbetutv.com)
- Lassa fever has continued to spread in Nigeria with 676 confirmed cases recorded across 89 local government areas in 22 states in the country. (naijablitznews.com)
- Deyin told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Jos on Thursday that 64 cases were taken to the laboratory for confirmation out of which 28 were confirmed to be Lassa fever. (dailyadvent.com)
- Lassa Fever, a viral disease that can be fatal in severe cases, is transmitted through contact with rats infected with the virus and through person-to-person contact. (socialscienceinaction.org)
- UK patient dies as more cases of Lassa fever reported. (euronews.com)
Mastomys2
- People contract Lassa virus through contact with infected Mastomys rats and through exposure to an infected person's bodily fluids. (nih.gov)
- Neighbouring countries are also at risk, as the animal vector for the Lassa virus, the "multimammate rat" (Mastomys natalensis) is distributed throughout the region. (dailytrust.com)
Guinea7
- The newly published findings show that LASSARAB, when administered with GLA-SE adjuvant (an immune response-stimulating protein), elicits antibodies against Lassa virus and rabies virus in mouse and guinea pig models. (nih.gov)
- The vaccine also protected guinea pigs from Lassa fever after being exposed to the virus 58 days after vaccination. (nih.gov)
- A new vaccine showed preclinical promise at effectively protecting people from Lassa fever and rabies in a study involving mice and guinea pigs. (medworm.com)
- Authorities in Guinea announced the first death from Lassa fever in more than two decades Thursday, heightening anxiety about another hemorrhagic fever in the West African country where an Ebola epidemic first emerged. (courthousenews.com)
- This resource reviews the present literature on treatment and pathogenesis of Lassa fever and outlines priorities for future research in the field made possible by the improved research capacity of the Mano River Union countries of Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea, Lassa fever network. (lassafever.info)
- Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus, primarily afflicts West African countries such as Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, and Nigeria. (com.ng)
- The Enable Lassa Fever Research programme, funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), was launched in 2019 to estimate the incidence of infection and disease due to Lassa Fever Virus in five West African countries (Benin, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone). (p-95.com)
Ondo State1
- The Ondo State government, says a total of 34 persons have died of Lassa Fever in the state from January to date. (punchng.com)
Arenaviridae1
- Lassa virus is a single-stranded RNA virus in the Arenaviridae family. (msdmanuals.com)
Zoonotic1
- Lassa fever is a zoonotic disease associated with high morbidity and mortality, and it has both economic and health security implications. (dailytrust.com)
20171
- Lagos has been the worst hit of the recent lassa fever outbreak in 2017. (com.ng)
Clinical3
- Her clinical features (94-97% and 90-94% identity in the Since then, laboratory capacity at the were compatible with Lassa fever, but GP and L genes, respectively). (cdc.gov)
- Conclusions This project represents the first step towards delineating the clinical development pathway for new Lassa fever therapeutics, following a period of 40 years without advancement. (ox.ac.uk)
- Describe at least two methods for identifying a patient with Lassa fever infection in the clinical setting. (netecweb.org)
Prevention2
- Further, educating people in high-risk areas about ways to decrease rodent populations in their homes will aid in the control and prevention of Lassa fever. (cdc.gov)
- Sleeping under mosquito bed nets and intake of herbal concoction were the principal mode of prevention of Lassa fever reported by respondents. (lassafever.info)
Rats2
- Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic fever transmitted by rats. (dailytrust.com)
- We should not allow rats wipe out the human race through the lassa fever virus they harbour. (com.ng)
Contact with rodent1
- This means that people were still getting Lassa virus by contact with rodent droppings. (nih.gov)
Diseases1
- NIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) A novel vaccine designed to protect people from both Lassa fever and rabies showed promise in preclinical testing, according to new research published in Nature Communications. (medworm.com)
Urine2
- A combination of pharyngitis, pain behind the sternum, presence of excess protein in the urine and fever can indicate Lassa fever with higher specificity. (wikipedia.org)
- Lassa fever is spread by contact with rat faeces urine or the bodily fluids of an infected person. (channelstv.com)
Malaise1
- Fever, general weakness and malaise are usually the first symptoms to appear in symptomatic patients. (who.int)
Liberia4
- In some areas of Sierra Leone and Liberia, about 10-16% of people admitted to hospitals annually have Lassa fever. (cdc.gov)
- None of the patient's contacts in Liberia became sick or tested positive for Lassa," the statement said. (courthousenews.com)
- In some areas of Sierra Leone and Liberia, it is known that 10%-16% of people admitted to hospitals have Lassa fever, which indicates the serious impact of the disease on the population of this region. (imageenvision.com)
- A 57-year-old woman presents to a clinic in Liberia for high fevers, nausea, and vomiting. (medbullets.com)
Africa1
- Both monkeypox and Lassa fever have been reported in Africa since the early 1970s. (ans.org)
19695
- The virus responsible was identified in 1969 after two missionary nurses died from the disease in the Nigerian town of Lassa. (medscape.com)
- Though first described in the 1950s, the virus causing Lassa disease was not identified until 1969. (who.int)
- The virus was first described in 1969 from a case in the town of Lassa, in Borno State, Nigeria. (wikipedia.org)
- The virus takes its name from the town of Lassa in northern Nigeria, where it was first identified in 1969. (channelstv.com)
- It has been known since the 1950s, but the virus was not identified until 1969 when two missionary nurses died from it in the town of Lassa in Nigeria. (dailytrust.com)
Rodent2
- To determine risk of Lassa fever in households in Sierra Leonean refugee camps, this paper analysed the spatial relationships between households with a Lassa case and focal locations of potential rodent habitats. (lassafever.info)
- Quality and hygiene factors of households were assessed to determine possible risk factors for household rodent infestation and occurrence of Lassa fever. (lassafever.info)
Severe1
- After a few days' respite, a second phase of aseptic meningitis may follow, with fever, severe headache, and neck stiffness. (medscape.com)
