Treatment of Lassa fever

Learn how Lassa fever is diagnosed and treated.

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How to diagnose Lassa fever

Lassa fever is diagnosed based on travel history, symptoms and laboratory testing.

How to treat Lassa fever

The antiviral drug ribavirin has been used as a treatment for Lassa fever. This treatment is most effective when started within the first 6 days of illness.

To help manage your symptoms, you may receive supportive medical care. This could include fluid replacement and electrolyte balance to replace the water in your body lost by vomiting and diarrhea.

In severe cases, a blood transfusion may be needed.

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