Since then Kwara state epidemiology team has been working with federal and international partners to continue investigation and assess risks. A  multi-agency  Incident Management System has also been constituted at the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control to ensure a rapid and coordinated response.

Yellow  fever  is  an  acute  viral  haemorrhagic  disease  transmitted  by  infected  Aedes mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, headache, jaundice (yellowness of the eyes), muscle pain, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. Some infected people may not experience any of these symptoms,  while  in  some  the  symptoms  might  be  mild.  In  severe  cases,  jaundice  and bleeding  may  occur  from  the  mouth,  nose,  eyes  or  stomach.

"Vaccination  against  the disease remains the most important measure in preventing Yellow Fever, and the Yellow Fever vaccine is part of the childhood immunisation schedule in Nigeria," said NCDC national coordinator Chikwe Ihekweazu.

"Other methods of prevention include using insect repellents, sleeping under a long-lasting insecticide treated nets, living in net screened accommodation, ensuring proper sanitation and getting rid of stagnant water or breeding places for mosquitoes.

Although there is no specific medicine to treat the disease, intensive supportive care can be provided and most patients would recover with appropriate care when they present early enough, said Ihekweazu.

Health care workers are strongly advised to practice standard precautions while handling  patients  and/or  body  fluids  at  all  times. 

They  are  also  urged  to  be  alert,  be familiar with the case definition and maintain a high index of suspicion.

Nigerians are advised to remain calm and support public health authorities, avoid self-medication and report to the nearest health facility if feeling unwell or notice any of the above symptoms in anyone around.  

Source:Dailytrust