NAVRC to commence detection of arthropod-borne viruses in human subjects with febrile illnesses

 National Arbovirus and Vectors Research Centre; is  to commence detection of arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses), in Vectors and  Human subjects with febrile illnesses, using RT-qPCR analysis. Inclusion of  the detection of arboviruses in human populations, will mark the second phase of activities at the Sentinel site. This research is to determine risks of arboviral disease outbreaks in the human population, acting as a pointer for timely interventions; in order to forestall disease outbreaks in humans.

Recall that in 2018, the Centre set up active disease surveillance sentinel sites in Niger, Benue, and Nasarawa states and recently, in Ebonyi and Anambra states. This is to determine vector species composition, abundance, their insecticide resistance status and also to help forestall outbreaks of infectious diseases like Yellow fever in the states.

Blood Sample Collection from Zaaki of Lwa’fu community, Niger State
Human Blood Sample Collections at Lwa’afu Community,Mokwa LGA, Niger State

The Centre had earlier trained Disease Vectors Surveillance Officers (DVSOs), from the different states on basic field entomological techniques. This is to provide skilled level manpower for active disease vectors surveillance in their various states. NAVRC-trained DVSO’s preparing ovitraps for Aedes mosquito eggs collection 

Earlier, the Team paid  Advocacy visit to the  Director,Primary Health Care, Borgu LGA, Niger state, to brief him on their planned activities in the state. The Team also paid  Advocacy visit to the Zaaki of Lwa’fu Community; to intimate him on the program and also used the opportunity to appeal for the support of the traditional ruler, and the members  of his community towards the program.

NAVRC Team  on Advocacy visit to  the Director, Public Health Care, Borgu LGA, Niger State. The NAVRC Team

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