The death reported in Iowa involved a middle-aged resident who recently returned from West Africa, where Lassa fever is endemic. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that the patient contracted the virus abroad and later died after experiencing symptoms in the U.S.
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness endemic to West Africa, caused by the Lassa virus. This disease is primarily transmitted through contact with urine or feces of infected rodents, specifically the multimammate rat (Mastomys natalensis). It can also spread through exposure to bodily fluids from infected individuals. Each year, West Africa reports 100,000–300,000 cases, with around 5,000 deaths​
Preventing Lassa fever focuses on minimizing contact with infected rodents and preventing human-to-human transmission. Since there is currently no vaccine, the primary prevention strategies include:
On October 28, 2024, Iowa health officials confirmed a fatal case of Lassa fever in a resident who had recently traveled to West Africa. Although the risk of local transmission is very low, the incident underscores the importance of early detection, particularly in returning travelers.
“Timely detection and patient isolation are essential to controlling outbreaks,” notes Anna RN, Director of Patient Services. She stresses the need for healthcare providers to ask patients about recent travel history when symptoms align with viral hemorrhagic fevers.
Lassa fever symptoms typically appear 7–21 days after exposure. Most cases (80%) are mild, featuring:
However, around 20% of infections progress to severe illness, causing:
Severe complications are particularly dangerous for pregnant women, with a fetal mortality rate nearing 75% during infection
Diagnosing Lassa fever can be challenging since symptoms overlap with malaria, dengue, and Ebola. Testing involves laboratory analysis of blood, urine, or throat swabs to detect viral RNA or antibodies.
The antiviral drug Ribavirin is most effective when administered early in the course of the disease. Supportive treatments—such as rehydration, oxygen therapy, and management of electrolyte imbalances—improve patient outcomes​
Currently, there is no vaccine available for Lassa fever. Preventing infection requires avoiding exposure to rodents and maintaining good hygiene. Key strategies include:
Healthcare providers are advised to monitor exposed individuals closely, especially those traveling from West Africa​
While the overall mortality rate for Lassa fever is approximately 1%, hospitalized patients with severe symptoms have a fatality rate of 15–20%. Pregnant individuals face a much higher risk, with maternal mortality reaching 30% during the third trimester. Even among survivors, about 25% experience hearing loss, which can be permanent in some cases​
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