An Iowa resident has died from Lassa fever, a rare viral illness primarily found in parts of West Africa, according to health officials. The Iowa Department of Public Health confirmed the death on Monday, marking an unusual case in the United States, where Lassa fever infections are exceedingly rare.
Lassa fever is typically transmitted through exposure to food or household items contaminated with the urine or feces of infected rodents, specifically the multimammate rat found in West Africa. The virus can also spread through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals, though person-to-person transmission is uncommon outside of healthcare settings.
Health authorities believe that the Iowa resident likely contracted the disease while traveling in Africa. Upon returning to Iowa, the individual began showing symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, and weakness, which gradually worsened. Health officials worked closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to confirm the diagnosis and contain any potential risk to the public. The CDC noted that while Lassa fever has a high fatality rate in severe cases, the risk of spread within the United States remains minimal, especially given the nature of transmission and the rarity of cases.
“While Lassa fever poses serious health risks, we want to assure the public that this is an isolated case,” stated Dr. Caitlin Pedati, Iowa’s state epidemiologist. “Our department, in collaboration with the CDC, has taken every precaution to assess and monitor anyone who may have been in close contact with the patient.”
Most U.S. cases of Lassa fever involve people who recently traveled to regions where the virus is endemic. According to the CDC, there are typically only one to two cases reported in the U.S. annually, primarily in travelers. Symptoms usually appear one to three weeks after exposure and may range from mild to severe. Mild cases often go undiagnosed, while severe cases can lead to hemorrhagic symptoms, shock, and multi-organ failure, which can be fatal if left untreated.
This fatal case has prompted Iowa health officials to remind travelers of the importance of taking preventive measures when visiting areas with known risks of infectious diseases, including avoiding contact with rodents and taking precautions when handling food and water. The CDC advises travelers to West Africa to be particularly vigilant, as Lassa fever has no approved vaccine.
The Iowa Department of Public Health emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, especially for those exhibiting symptoms after recent international travel. “We urge anyone experiencing unusual symptoms to seek medical care promptly, particularly if they have recently traveled abroad,” Dr. Pedati advised.
The CDC and Iowa Department of Public Health are continuing to monitor the situation closely. In the meantime, local health authorities are working to ensure the community’s safety and limit any additional risk.