Lassa fever, a rare virus typically found in West Africa, has claimed the life of an Iowa resident who had recently traveled to the region. Health officials assure Iowans that the risk of transmission within the state remains extremely low, and the CDC is working closely with local partners to monitor any close contacts. Lassa fever is primarily spread by specific rodents in West Africa and, in rare cases, from person to person through bodily fluids. Most people infected with the virus experience mild symptoms like fever and fatigue, but some develop severe symptoms requiring hospitalization. Learn more about the symptoms, transmission methods, and treatments available for Lassa fever.
An Iowa resident recently passed away from Lassa fever, a rare virus mostly found in West Africa. Here's a breakdown of what Lassa fever is, how it spreads, and its symptoms.
Key Points on the Iowa Case
- Location: Iowa, USA
- Patient: A middle-aged resident who had recently traveled to West Africa
- Health Statement: The Iowa Department of Health reassures the public that Lassa fever transmission risk in Iowa is extremely low
- Investigation: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working with local health authorities to identify and monitor anyone who may have had close contact with the patient
What is Lassa Fever?
Lassa fever is a viral illness spread by specific rodents, primarily West African multimammate rats. This virus is commonly found in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. While Lassa fever is rare in the United States, there have been a few travel-related cases.
- Incubation Period: 2 to 21 days, meaning symptoms can take up to three weeks to appear.
- Cases in the U.S.: Only 8 travel-related cases have been recorded in the past 55 years.
- Global Impact: Around 100,000 to 300,000 cases occur yearly in West Africa, with approximately 5,000 deaths.
How Lassa Fever Spreads
Lassa fever spreads through contact with the saliva, urine, or droppings of infected rats, often through contaminated food or surfaces.
Human-to-Human Transmission
- Can occur through contact with bodily fluids of an infected person
- Not spread through casual contact, like shaking hands or hugging
- Risk Level: The CDC reports that transmission risk from the Iowa case is very low
Symptoms of Lassa Fever
For most, Lassa fever causes mild symptoms similar to other illnesses, so many cases go undiagnosed.
Common Symptoms
- Slight fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
Severe Symptoms
In about 1 in 5 cases, symptoms may be more severe, including:
- Bleeding
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling (face, chest, or stomach pain)
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports an overall fatality rate of about 1%, but it can be as high as 15% among hospitalized patients.
Treatment and Safety Measures
- Treatment: An antiviral drug called ribavirin can be effective, especially if administered early
- Supportive Care: Pain relievers and rehydration therapy may help reduce symptoms
- Hospital Safety: The Iowa resident was treated in a specialized unit to contain the virus, ensuring the safety of other patients and staff.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
- University of Iowa Health Care
