Iowa Department of Health and Human Services or other relevant health authorities

Iowa Reports Eighth Known Lassa Fever Death in Middle-Aged Resident Returning from West Africa

Oct 28, 2024, 09:28 PM

A rare imported case of Lassa fever has resulted in the death of a middle-aged resident in Iowa, according to state health authorities. The individual, who had recently returned from West Africa, contracted the virus, which is known to cause Ebola-like illness. This marks the eighth reported case of Lassa fever imported into the United States in the past 55 years. Health experts have indicated that the risk of widespread transmission is low, particularly among those who were in contact with the deceased, except for healthcare workers. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the fatality, emphasizing the rarity of such cases in the U.S.