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Analysis of National Lassa Fever Surveillance Data, Sierra Leone, 2012 – 2018
Abstract
Introduction: Globally, about 500,000 Lassa fever (LF) cases occur annually with West Africa recording 300,000 infections and 5,000 deaths. LF is one of Sierra Leone's immediately reportable diseases under the integrated disease surveillance and response strategy. However, limited epidemiological analysis has been conducted. We described the demographic, and geographical distribution of reported LF cases and determined trend, incidence, and case-fatality rates of LF in Sierra Leone.
Methods: We analyzed secondary data from LF sentinel site database for Sierra Leone from 2012 - 2018. We reviewed, cleaned, edited, the data using Microsoft Excel 2016. We calculated proportions, rates, and ratios using the number of deaths, positive cases, suspected cases, and the population at risk with a constant as a multiplier. We mapped LF incidence and presented data using tables, graphs, and maps.
Results: Of 2,879 suspected cases reported, 14.2% (408/2879) were confirmed for LF. Median age of confirmed cases was 21 years (0-75 years). Females formed 59% (240/408) of the confirmed LF cases. Kenema district recorded the highest incidence ( 21/100,000 population) in 2012 and (24/100,000 population) in 2013. LF incidence was highest in 2013 with 26/100,000 population. The overall CFR was 38.8% (157/408). The trend of cases dropped from 2012 - 2018.
Conclusion: Incidence of LF in Sierra Leone decreased with cases occurring all year round. Females and those aged 10-39 years were the most affected. The LF program and the Ministry of Health and Sanitation should conduct community sensitizations on LF to promote early health-seeking behavior in high incidence districts.
