Health Alert – U. S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin

Location: Department of Borgou, near Parakou 

Event: The Ministry of Health in Benin confirmed two cases of Lassa fever with other cases suspected. Lassa fever is a rare but potentially life-threatening viral hemorrhagic disease. 

Actions to Take:

·         Consult a medical professional if you have been in direct contact with an infected person within the past three weeks and have symptoms of Lassa fever which include: fever, chest, stomach or back pain, cough, vomiting, diarrhea, or mucosal bleeding (i.e. from the eyes, gums, nose, or intestinal tract).

·         Visit CDC’s website on Lassa Fever 

Assistance:

·         U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin
+(229) 21-30-75-00
ConsularCotonou@state.gov

·         State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444

·         Benin Country Information

·         Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates

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