The Edo State Government has confirmed eight deaths and 56 cases of Lassa fever from December 30, 2024, to January 2025. This information was shared on Friday by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, during a press briefing in Benin City to address the Lassa fever situation in the state.
Dr. Oshiomhole reported that since the beginning of the 2025 epidemic year, 336 suspected cases of Lassa fever have been recorded, with 56 confirmed and eight fatalities. He emphasized that the outbreak poses a significant public health concern due to the rapid transmission of the disease and the potential for severe outcomes if not effectively managed.
Currently, 14 patients are receiving specialized care at the Lassa Fever Treatment Center in Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH). The commissioner also compared the current situation to previous years, noting that in 2024, Edo State recorded 3,270 suspected cases, 292 confirmed cases, and 41 deaths, which was a decrease from 2023, when there were 65 deaths and 372 confirmed cases.
To address the outbreak, the state government has activated its Public Health Emergencies Response Management Team, working with healthcare facilities, community leaders, and stakeholders. The response includes enhanced surveillance, expanded treatment centers, improved Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures, public awareness campaigns, and partnerships with health organizations.
Dr. Oshiomhole urged residents to promptly report symptoms such as fever, weakness, headaches, vomiting, or bleeding to the nearest health facility for early detection and treatment. He also emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) and supporting Lassa fever management efforts.
The molecular laboratory at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) has been optimized for Lassa fever testing, adding to the state’s capacity with two operational testing centers at UBTH and ISTH.
The News Agency of Nigeria further reports that Dr. Ekaete Tobi of ISTH has been appointed as the state’s Lassa Fever Incident Manager to coordinate outbreak control activities.
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