Bauchi Agricultural Development Program intensifies efforts to combat Lassa Fever among farmers

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Muhammad Sani Muazu, Bauchi

The Bauchi State Agricultural Development Program (BSADP) has raised concerns over the increasing vulnerability of farmers to Lassa Fever due to poor food storage practices and inadequate preventive measures.

Speaking on the issue, the Program Manager of BSADP, Ya’u Muhammad, emphasized the strong connection between food, health, and disease prevention, stating that “food is life” and that a lack of proper nutrition can lead to severe health challenges.

Highlighting the role of rodents in the spread of Lassa Fever, Ya’u Muhammad identified rats as the primary carriers of the virus, which they transmit through contaminated food during harvest and storage.

He advised farmers to avoid leaving harvested produce in the field for extended periods, as this increases the risk of contamination.

Instead, they are urged to immediately transport their produce to secure storage facilities that are rodent-free.

“As part of our preventive measures, we encourage farmers to use rodent control methods like rat poison. However, we caution them to use these chemicals responsibly, keeping them out of reach of children and domestic animals,” Muhammad said.

The BSADP is taking proactive steps to educate farmers and the general public about Lassa Fever through various platforms.

These include community radio stations, other media outlets in Bauchi metropolis, social media channels, and its extensive network of extension workers operating across the state.

According to the program manager, these “warfront soldiers” are actively engaging rural communities with sensitization campaigns to ensure farmers adopt safe practices during harvest and storage.

Muhammad also praised the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammad, for his unwavering support of farmers and the agricultural sector.

He noted that the governor’s prioritization of farmers’ welfare has strengthened BSADP’s ability to address issues affecting the health and productivity of farming families.

The BSADP reaffirmed its commitment to improving the lives of farmers and their families, stressing that any threat to their health is a direct threat to the program’s objectives.

The organization called for collective action to mitigate the spread of Lassa Fever and ensure a healthier and more productive farming community in Bauchi State.