Trend of Lassa fever cases and factors associated with mortality in Liberia, 2016 – 2021 a secondary data analysis

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Trend of Lassa fever cases and factors associated with mortality in Liberia, 2016 - 2021 a secondary data analysis

Abstract
Introduction: Lassa fever (LF) is endemic in Liberia and is immediately reportable. Suspected cases are confirmed at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory. However, there is limited information on the trend and factors associated with mortality. We described the epidemiological characteristics of LF cases and determined factors associated with mortality in Liberia from 2016 to 2021.

Methods: We reviewed 867 case-based LF surveillance data from 2016 to 2021 obtained from the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL). The cases that met the suspected LF case definition were tested with RT-PCR. Using Epi Info 7.2.5.0. We conducted univariate, bivariate, and
multivariate and analysis. We calculated frequencies, proportions. Positivity rate, case fatality rate, and factors associated with LF mortality using chi-square statistics and logistics regression at 5% level of significance.

Results: eighty-five percent (737/867) of the suspected cases were tested and 26.0% (192/737)
were confirmed LF positive. The median age of confirmed LF cases was 21(IQR: 12-34) years. Age
10-19 years accounted for 24.5% (47/192) and females 54.2% (104/192). Bong 33.9% (65/192),
Grand Bassa 31.8% (61/192), and Nimba counties, 21.9% (42/192) accounted for most of the cases.