The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, has announced the outbreak of the dreaded hemorrhagic disease, Lassa Fever in the State.
He told journalists that the declaration followed the confirmation of several cases of Lassa Fever in the State through laboratory testing, noting that the outbreak poses a significant public health concern due to its potential for rapid transmission and severe outcomes if not effectively managed.
“The 2025 epidemic year began on December 30, 2024. Since then, the state has recorded 336 suspected cases, of which 56 have been confirmed positive, with eight deaths,” he said.
These figures, he said, were recorded between 30 December, 2024 and 24 January, 2025.
According to him, 14 patients are currently receiving expert’s care at Irrua Specialists Teaching Hospital (ISTH)’s Lassa Fever treatment center.
Oshiomhole further explained that the State recorded 3,270 suspected cases in 2024, of which 292 were confirmed positive, with 41 deaths.
He, however, noted that the 2024 figures marked an improvement from the 2023 outbreak, where 3,764 suspected cases and 372 confirmed cases resulted in 65 deaths.
“To contain this outbreak, State Public Health Emergencies Response Management Team has activated its emergency response mechanisms.
“Also, We are collaborating with healthcare facilities, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to implement measures against the disease,” he said.
Oshiomhole listed the measures to include enhanced surveillance, treatment centers, public awareness campaigns, public awareness campaigns, infection prevention and control (IPC) and collaboration with partners
He advised residents to be vigilant and report anyone around them that exhibits symptoms such as fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, or bleeding to the nearest health facility immediately, noting that early detention and treatment significantly improve outcomes.
He, however, charged the State responses team to redouble their efforts to drastically reduce the Case Fatality Rate (CFR), assuring of government’s commitment to providing the necessary support to achieve this goal.
He said the molecular laboratory at UBTH was optimized for Lassa Fever testing bringing the total testing centers to two, adding that the two centre at UBTH and ISTH has strengthened the state’s testing capacity and response capabilities.
While activating the response team, he appointed Dr. Ekaete Tobi of ISTH as the State Lassa Fever Incident Manager for the outbreak response.
The Commissioner for Health commended the dedication of all stakeholders involved in the fight against Lassa Fever and their unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health in the State.
