How do people get Lassa fever from rodents?
The virus is transmitted to people in a number of ways: • Aerosol or airborne transmission occurs when a person inhales tiny particles in the air contaminated with rodent excretions. • Direct contact occurs from touching rodent urine or droppings or contaminated with rodent excretions. Cases also occur after eating food contaminated by rodent excretions or by the introduction of the virus through breaks in the skin (cuts or sores). Some cases occur after eating an infected rodent. • Person-to-person contact with the blood, tissue, secretions or excretions of an individual infected with the Lassa virus can cause the disease. A person may also become infected by breathing in small airborne particles, which an already infected person produces through actions like coughing. Contaminated medical equipment, such as reused needles, can also spread the virus. Symptoms Q: What are the symptoms of Lassa fever? A: The illness can begin with a gradual onset of fever, headache and tiredness. Additi
