All You Need To Know About New Killer Disease, ‘Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)’
The Federal Government has alerted Nigerians to the outbreak of a killer disease known as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome in the country.
The Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, who announced the outbreak of the disease at a news conference in Abuja last week Friday, said the disease had killed oneperson.
Adewole added that another person affected by the disease was responding to treatment at the National Hospital, Abuja.
We hereby presents all you need to know about the disease.
What is SJS?
Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare, serious disorder of your skin and mucous membranes. It’s usually a reaction to a medication or an infection. Often, Stevens-Johnson syndrome begins with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful red or purplish rash that spreads and blisters. Then the top layer of the affected skin dies and sheds.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a medical emergency that usually requires hospitalization. Treatment focuses on eliminating the underlying cause, controlling symptoms and minimizing complications.
Recovery after Stevens-Johnson syndrome can take weeks to months, depending on the severity of your condition. If it was caused by a medication, you’ll need to permanently avoid that drug and others closely related to it.
Why is it called Steven Johnson’s syndrome? (SJS)