Lassa Fever: Current Treatment and Prospects of an Effective Vaccine

Abstract

Lassa fever (LF) has been a topical viral haemorrhagic fever with recurrent outbreaks in parts of West Africa where it has been endemic for some decades. It is a zoonotic disease with fatality of about 1% in the on-going outbreak in Nigeria. LF is responsible for the death of about 5,000 people annually, but till date has no preventive vaccine. In this paper we presented a brief virology of the causative agent of LF and reviewed the clinical presentation, requisite precautionary measures, diagnosis and current treatment of the virus infection. In addition the frontline vaccine candidates and prospects of having a prophylactic vaccine for Lassa fever are highlighted.