The epidemiology unit of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) has issued a notice over the corpse of a Lassa fever victim released by the hospital.

It was learnt that the hospital had released the corpse to the family before realising that the victim died from hemorrhagic fever.

LUTH asked all health officials to identify persons who have had contact with the body.

“All HODs in lkorodu LGA and the 5 LCDAs are hereby alerted to swing into immediate action to line list all contacts with the body from the hospital to their destination,” read a notice issued to the health officials.

“They should also prevent the body from being buried at home. The address would be posted as soon as it is confirmed. Meanwhile, all officers in lmota are by this notice directed to mount surveillance in lmota town to know where a woman died in LUTH today.

“In addition, we should all note that on NO account should a patient suspected to have any of the viral hemorrhagic fevers be moved or transferred from where he/she is once that diagnosis is being entertained. The officer there should contact his superiors locally plus the state epidemiology unit at Alausa and receive clear instructions on what to do next.

“Moving or transferring the suspect will only ignorantly expose more people and create unnecessary, irrational panic. Detain the patient there and make the call. We have two Lassa fever suspects admitted at Mainland Hospital, Yaba.”

Chris Bode, chief medical director (CMD) of the hospital had said two persons died of the disease.

He also confirmed that 100 workers have been placed under surveillance.

Azeez