UK Lassa fever death highlights global threat of infectious diseases, experts say

Cases of illness normally seen in west Africa are stark reminder' of need to invest in outbreak preparedness

The death of a newborn baby with Lassa fever in Luton is a grim reminder of the global threat posed by deadly infectious diseases. Three cases have been confirmed in England - the first time the acute viral illness normally only seen in west Africa has emerged in the UK for 13 years.

This weekend, officials from the UK Health Security Agency are closely monitoring hundreds of people identified as potential contacts of the three cases. The Guardian has learned many of these individuals will continue to be monitored for the rest of the month and into March.