The Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, on Tuesday confirmed the death of three persons following the recent outbreak of Lassa fever in Taraba.

The Medical Director of the hospital, Dr Wiza Inusa, disclosed this to journalists while giving an update on the outbreak in Jalingo.

Inusa added that two others were still receiving treatment at the hospital.

According to him, the current incident started on December 25.

“So far, we have a total of five cases out of which we lost three and two are receiving treatment.”

The medical director urged the public not to panic as every effort was being made to contain the outbreak.

Inusa also advised residents to maintain “simple basic hygienic procedures to contain the situation.”

“As we all know, this disease is carried by rodents, we advise people to mind the way they keep their food, plates and pots in the house.

“People should always keep their environment clean so as to keep rodents, especially rats, away.”

The medical director enjoined the public to quickly report to the nearest hospital whenever they experienced any strange health conditions such as bleeding and abdominal pain, among others.

Besides, Inusa asked residents to avoid crowded areas and handshakes, and endeavour to report to medical personnel if a family member dies of unexplained condition.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Lassa fever outbreak in 2012 claimed 10 lives before it was contained by the authorities in the state. (NAN)

•Photo shows Health Minister, Prof. Isaac Adewole.