DIAGNOSIS
Lassa fever has a wide range of symptoms, making diagnosis difficult. Aside from, physical exam, medical assessment, and evaluation of symptoms, the following tests should be performed:
- liver testing
- Urine
- serologic testing
- CBC
The PCR testing is the quickest, although showing Lassa antibodies or a 4-fold increase in IgG antibody levels using an intermediate fluorescent antibody approach is equally diagnostic.
Even though the virus may be cultivated in cell culture, it is rarely done on a regular basis.
If lung development is indicated, chest x-rays may reveal basilar pulmonary edema and pericardial effusion.
TREATMENT
Rehydration and symptom management can help to increase your chance. If there is an early diagnosis, this is a reliable source of survival. The antiviral medicine ribavirin has been shown to be effective in battling the Lassa virus when given early, although its mechanism of action is unknown.
However, in the areas most hit by the Lassa virus, ribavirin is scarce. Ribavirin is also potentially toxic and teratogenic, meaning it can cause mutations. As a result, it isn’t an ideal solution. Besides, Ribavirin is ineffective in preventing Lassa fever before it develops, and there is presently no vaccine available.
Fortunately, development on vaccination is ongoing, and certain medications are exhibiting promise.
