Lassa Fever - Kill Rats, Make Money in Lagos

To ensure effective implementation of its Vector Control Programme aimed at eradicating Lassa Fever and other vector-borne diseases, the Lagos State Government has commenced the training of officers that will execute the project.

The training which will last for two weeks is being conducted in collaboration with its project partners, Lagos-based Phosguard Fumigant Ltd., a Non-Governmental Organisation.

Mr Oluwasegun Benson, the project's Director, said this Sunday in Lagos that the training which commenced on Sept. 26, was to impart the knowledge of effective use of hi-tech chemicals to the officers.

Benson, the Chief Executive Officer of Phosguard, said that about 25 youths were currently being trained for the take-off of the project that would involve the killing of rodents beginning with the markets in the state.

"The project involves killing of rats, using chemicals as baits and this requires special skills to avoid the adverse effects of the chemicals.

"The training which is in three levels is in preparation for the programme to rid the state of rodents and buying up the rats for proper disposal.

"We will collaborate with the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to either incinerate or bury the rats according to the best practices.