The Nigeria Red Cross Society has said that the organisation is working towards mitigating the further spread of Lassa Fever which has claimed the lives of 150 people across 27 states in Nigeria.
The National President of the organisation, Adeaga Oluyemisi Adetayo stated this in Abuja during the World Red Cross Day celebration.
He said the organisation has embarked on rigorous sensitisation campaigns, community engagement initiatives and healthcare support with the view to combating the disease, reports Daily Independent.
Adeaga while attributing the challenges of Lassa Fever intervention to the high cost of treatment leading to poor clinical management of Lassa fever said the organisation is doing everything possible to contain the scourge.
He admonished Nigerians to cultivate the habit of living in a clean and hygienic environment.
A statement jointly signed by the President and General Secretary of the organisation, Mr. Abubakar Ahmed Kende read in part, “As we gather here today, on the occasion of World Red Cross Red Crescent Day, we commemorate not only the birth of our esteemed founder, Sir Jean-Henri Dunant who founded the Red Cross in 1863, but also the enduring spirit of humanity that drives our global movement. With reverence for our past and a steadfast commitment to our future, we stand united under the banner of compassion, resilience, and service to others.
“This year, as we reflect on the theme of ‘Keeping Humanity Alive,’ we are reminded of the critical importance of our mission in the face of unprecedented global challenges. From the devastating impact of conflicts to the relentless onslaught of natural disasters, epidemics and pandemics our volunteers are on the front lines, providing comfort, relief, and hope to those in desperate need. In a world plagued by uncertainty and turmoil, preserving humanity becomes our beacon of light, guiding us through the darkest of times.
“Here in Nigeria, the Nigerian Red Cross Society stands as a beacon of hope for millions of our fellow citizens. With a volunteer strength of 800,000 spread across the 774 Local Government Areas of Nigeria, we are the largest humanitarian organization in the country. Since our inception in 1960, we have been at the forefront of disaster management, relief efforts and so much more.
“Our work extends far beyond emergency response. Through our Cash Transfer Programming, Restoring and Maintaining Family Links, Disaster Risk Reduction, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene initiatives, Health Promotion campaigns, and various other programs, we strive to address the diverse needs of the most vulnerable members of our society.
“ Right now, we are focused on combating the outbreak of Lassa Fever, which has claimed the lives of 150 people and affected thousands more across 27 states. Through rigorous sensitization efforts, community engagement initiatives, and healthcare support, we are working tirelessly to contain the spread of the Lassa Fever virus and save lives.
The challenges of this Lassa Fever Intervention are many. People don’t go to hospital or clinics until their cases are advanced leading to an increase in deaths. Most people are scared of the high cost of treatment and avoid hospitals leading to poor clinical management of Lassa fever.
Poor environmental sanitation conditions are observed in communities, areas where people suffer from the disease.
“Finally, as we mark World Red Cross Day, let us reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the principles that define us. Let us honor the sacrifices of our volunteers, past and present, who have dedicated their lives to the service of others.
“And let us draw inspiration from the resilience and compassion that unite us in our shared humanity. Let us all stand up for a minute silence for our volunteers and staff that paid supreme sacrifice of death globally.”
