The CEO of DeBranch Farmers and a public health specialist, Sandra Victor-Gwafan, has advised farmers and shop owners to prevent drying grains on the ground and to routinely clean the grain stores to get rid of rats as the Lassa Fever outbreak’s death toll rises nationwide.
In an interview with Vanguard, Victor-Gwafan voiced his profound concern about the increasing number of fatalities from the deadly illness and urged more action from government and private organisations, including religious institutions, to reduce the impact and raise awareness of the disease and its preventative measures.
She said: “I see how Lassa fever is hurting families, especially in rural areas where people don’t always have quick access to healthcare. The numbers are increasing, and behind every case is a person — a farmer, a parent, a child. It is not just a health issue; it affects how people work, what they eat, and how they live. We cannot afford to ignore it.
“One of the simplest and most effective things we can do is to store food properly. At Debranch Farmers, we always encourage people to use tightly sealed containers; plastic or metal works well and keeps food off the ground.
“Grains and other dry food should be dried on clean surfaces, never bare soil. Clean storage areas, cover your food and keep the space free from leftovers or waste that attract rats.
“My advice is clear: stay clean, stay aware. Farmers must stop drying grains on the ground and regularly clean their storage spaces. Store owners should check their warehouses often, seal holes, and use rodent-proof containers. If we take more time to store food properly and keep our surroundings clean, we can greatly reduce the risk. At Debranch, we are already teaching these practices to our farmers, and it’s making a difference.”
However, she said the preventive measures that farmers, store owners, and Nigerians, in general, should take care of to ensure good hygiene practices.
“Prevention is all about awareness and good hygiene. Keep your environment clean. Don’t leave food uncovered. Wash your hands regularly, especially before cooking or eating.
“And if someone feels sick, don’t wait, get medical help early. We ensure our farmers and their families understand these things at Debranch Farmers. A little effort now can save lives later”, she added.
Source: Vanguard
