NCDC says transport costs and data issues slow Lassa fever response
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has highlighted major challenges in tackling Lassa fever outbreaks. Dr Jide Idris, the Director-General, explained that high transportation costs and weak data systems are affecting timely detection and response in some states. He noted that transporting samples from remote areas remains expensive and logistically difficult. Dr Idris also raised concerns about inconsistent reporting and the need for better coordination at the state level.
What we know
- Dr Jide Idris stated that specimen transportation from local communities to state laboratories is costly and logistically challenging.
- Fuel prices and transportation hurdles are causing delays in testing and response times, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
- Inconsistent reporting and parallel data systems have led to gaps in surveillance and discrepancies between federal and state figures.
- Poor internet connectivity and limited funds at some facilities hinder real-time reporting of Lassa fever cases.
- Dr Idris emphasized that effective outbreak control depends on accurate data, strong state-level coordination, and proper communication between health authorities.
