UK health officials are investigating potential cases of Lassa fever after a traveler to England, who has since returned to Nigeria, was confirmed to have been infected with the virus. Health experts emphasize that Lassa fever does not spread easily between people, and the overall risk to the public remains very low.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has assured that individuals who have not been contacted by the agency are highly unlikely to have been exposed to the virus. Lassa fever is endemic in several West African countries, where infections typically occur through contact with food or household items contaminated by the urine or feces of infected rats. While the disease is rare in the UK, a small number of cases have been reported in the past, with the most recent occurrence in 2022.

UK officials have stated that they are "well-equipped to identify people who have Lassa fever" and are taking steps to prevent any potential spread of the infection. The UKHSA is actively working to trace and contact anyone who may have been in close contact with the infected individual during their time in England.

Dr. Meera Chand, deputy director at the UK Health Security Agency, commented: "Our health protection teams are working quickly to reach out to individuals who had contact with this person while they were in England. We are ensuring they receive appropriate medical care and testing if they develop any symptoms. The infection does not spread easily between people, and the overall risk to the UK population is very low."

Individuals diagnosed with Lassa fever will receive supportive treatment, which includes hydration, symptom monitoring, and medications to address specific symptoms. Currently, there is no single effective treatment for the disease.

What is Lassa Fever?

• Lassa fever is a viral illness that can spread through contact with the bodily fluids (such as blood, saliva, urine, or semen) of infected individuals.
• Humans can also contract the virus by coming into contact with the urine or feces of infected rodents that carry the disease.
• Many infected individuals show no symptoms, but the disease can cause fever, flu-like symptoms, and in severe cases, bleeding from the nose, mouth, or other parts of the body.
• While most people recover fully, the illness can be fatal in some cases.

UK health authorities remain vigilant and are taking all necessary precautions to ensure public safety. The risk of widespread transmission is considered minimal, given the low transmissibility of the virus between humans.