Assessment of rodent-borne disease (Lassa Fever) and its health implications in Kpakiama Community, Bomadi

Abstract

Lassa fever is a zoonotic viral disease of public health importance in West Africa, with transmission associated with human exposure to infected rodent reservoirs and contaminated environments. This study assessed perceived risk factors, knowledge, and health implications of Lassa fever among adult residents of Kpakiama Community, Bomadi Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined perceived factors associated with Lassa fever transmission, perceived public health implications, perceived economic impacts, and measures for prevention and control. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted. A sample of 150 adult residents was selected from the six quarters of the community using stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using frequencies and percentages. The findings showed substantial agreement among respondents that environmental, infrastructural, knowledge-related, cultural, and behavioural factors may contribute to Lassa fever transmission. Respondents also reported perceived public health and economic consequences associated with Lassa fever and identified early reporting, community sanitation, and other preventive practices as important measures for prevention and control. Because the study was based on self-reported questionnaire data and did not involve laboratory confirmation of Lassa virus infection, the findings should be interpreted as evidence of community perceptions, reported practices, and perceived health implications rather than as confirmation of active Lassa fever transmission in Kpakiama. The study recommends strengthened community health education, improved environmental sanitation and waste management, safe food storage, early reporting of suspected cases, and improved access to appropriate healthcare services.