Psychiatric Symptoms in People with Probable or Confirmed Lassa Fever in a Military Hospital in North Central Nigeria: A Case Series

Abstract

Lassa fever (LF) is an important public health disease in West Africa, where it is endemic. The early phase of the disease is characterised by non-specific symptoms mimicking malaria and other common febrile illnesses. Neuro-psychiatric symptoms are not commonly reported and psychiatrists are not usually part of the management team. Surviving Lassa fever patients with psychiatric symptoms tend to have long hospital stays. The study is aimed at describing the pattern of neuropsychiatric symptoms in people with probable or confirmed Lassa fever at the 161 Nigerian Air force Hospital (NAF), Makurdi. Neuropsychiatric symptoms were common in patients with probable or confirmed Lassa fever. Delirium, low mood, and convulsions were common in the series. There is a need for more research on the psychiatric aspects of Lassa fever and the involvement of psychiatrists in treatment could improve the outcomes of patients with Lassa fever.