Asian Journal of Advances in Research

Numerous studies have been conducted on Lassa fever in Ebonyi State, yet none have focused on its impact on the agricultural activities and farm productivity of rural farmers. Consequently, this research aims to address that gap by using Ebonyi as a case study, given that the state is heavily dependent on agriculture. This investigation identifies the livelihood activities of farmers, the risk factors associated with Lassa fever, its effects on agricultural productivity, and coping strategies for outbreaks in the region. A total of 650 farmers were randomly selected for interaction through a random selection method. A questionnaire was employed to collect data from the farmers, which was then analyzed using percentages and presented in frequency tables, along with mean and standard deviation. The findings indicated that farmers are involved in cassava cultivation (96.9%), cereal farming (93.8%), yam production (89.2%), and charcoal production, among other activities. The identified risk factors for Lassa fever include individuals of all ages (94.3%), contact with infected individuals (90.9%), consumption of rats/rodents (96.9%), and residing in unsanitary conditions (83.8%). The outbreak of Lassa fever results in income loss (M = 3.30), leads to reduced land cultivation, causes food insecurity (M = 2.62), and limits access to food (M = 3.5), among other consequences. To manage the outbreak, farmers resort to backyard farming, buying goods on credit, migrating, and opting for cheaper food options.