No fewer than twenty health workers at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) who were in direct contact with a confirmed Lassa fever patient have tested negative for the virus, hospital authorities confirmed on Saturday.
Grassroots Parrot had exclusively reported the confirmation of a case of Lassa fever by the AKTH), triggering immediate response efforts, including contact tracing and precautionary screening of hospital staff and patients.
However, the negative results of the health workers were confirmed in a statement issued on Saturday by the hospital’s Chief Information Officer, Maryam Aminu Usman, and signed on behalf of the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, Professor Muhammad Abba Suwaid.
According to Prof. Suwaid, the affected personnel were promptly isolated as a precaution and had their blood samples collected for laboratory testing. The results confirmed that none of the staff had contracted the virus.
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“This outcome is a testament to the diligence and professionalism of AKTH staff in handling patients and adhering to infection prevention protocols,” Prof. Suwaid stated.
He explained that the hospital management acted swiftly after confirming a case of Lassa fever in a 22-year-old pregnant woman who was admitted on April 5, 2025. Upon diagnosis, immediate measures were taken to contain any potential spread within the hospital and its surrounding community.
Meanwhile, contact tracing was extended beyond the hospital, with the Kano State Epidemiology Unit notified to begin investigations in Garun Mallam Local Government Area, where the patient originated, according to the statement.
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“So far, all individuals identified through contact tracing have tested negative, except for the patient’s husband, who has since tested positive. He is currently receiving care under the supervision of the Kano State Epidemiology Unit.” the statement added.
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness that can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early. It spreads primarily through contact with food or items contaminated by rodents, as well as through person-to-person transmission in clinical settings without adequate protective measures.