BENUE DECLARES LASSA FEVER OUTBREAK AS 56 SUSPECTED CASES, FOUR DEATHS REPORTED
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Benue State Government has officially declared an outbreak of Lassa fever following the report of at least 56 suspected cases across the state.
The Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Paul Ogwuche, made the announcement on Tuesday while briefing journalists in Makurdi, citing a recent surge in suspected and confirmed infections, including fatalities.
According to Ogwuche, eight of the reported cases have been laboratory confirmed, with three deaths recorded among confirmed patients and one additional probable death currently under investigation.
“This figure indicates a high case fatality rate among confirmed cases, which is of serious concern to health authorities,” the commissioner said.
He expressed particular worry over the infection of frontline health workers, revealing that four healthcare professionals—three nurses and one community health worker—have contracted the disease. Ogwuche also paid tribute to a Benue-born medical doctor who recently died of Lassa fever while on duty in Jos, Plateau State, describing the loss as a painful reminder of the occupational risks faced by health workers.
In response to the outbreak, the state government has activated an emergency response mechanism to curb further spread.
“In line with this commitment, the government has activated the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre to coordinate surveillance, case management, contact tracing, and public sensitisation efforts across all 23 local government areas,” Ogwuche said.
He stressed the importance of strict adherence to Infection Prevention and Control measures in all health facilities to protect both patients and medical personnel, while urging residents to remain calm but vigilant.
Ogwuche explained that Lassa fever is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or exposure to their urine and droppings, and can also spread from person to person, particularly in healthcare settings with poor infection control practices.
He listed common symptoms of the disease as persistent high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, and, in severe cases, unexplained bleeding.
Advising residents on preventive measures, the commissioner urged the public to maintain good environmental hygiene, store food properly to prevent rodent infestation, avoid self-medication, and seek prompt medical attention at the nearest health facility if symptoms occur.
“Early detection and treatment can significantly improve survival outcomes,” he noted.
Ogwuche also called on residents to promptly report suspected cases through the Benue State Lassa Fever emergency hotline on 0803-929-4999 or to the nearest Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer.
He disclosed that two of the fatalities were recorded about two weeks ago and emphasised that the situation remains serious, with the Ministry of Health continuing to implement emergency measures to protect frontline workers and contain the outbreak across the state.
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