Two Lives Lost as Lassa Fever Cases Rise to Nine in Benue
Two residents have died from Lassa fever in Benue State, health authorities confirmed on Thursday, as the number of suspected infections climbed to nine, intensifying public health fears across the region.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, disclosed during a press briefing in Makurdi that the additional fatalities came amid a recent uptick in reported cases over the past two weeks.
“We now have nine suspected cases on the state’s disease surveillance dashboard; five of these are confirmed positive, and regrettably two lives have been lost,” Dr. Ogwuche said.
According to health officials, the infections are mainly concentrated in Buruku and Makurdi Local Government Areas, with two health workers among those infected, raising concerns about transmission risks within healthcare settings.
This development follows a report earlier in the week that Benue had recorded seven fresh suspected cases of Lassa fever, prompting state authorities to heighten surveillance and community alerts.
Government Response
Dr. Ogwuche stated that the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre has been activated, and a rapid response team deployed to address the outbreak. Surveillance has been strengthened across all local councils in the state to ensure early detection and isolation of new cases.
Residents have been urged to observe strict hygiene and sanitation practices, especially in rodent-prone environments. “Avoid rodents, especially rats. During the dry season when grasses are burnt, rodents seek shelter in homes, and uncovered food items can become contaminated,” the commissioner warned.
Officials also advised the public to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as prolonged fever, fatigue, weakness, or bleeding occur.
Public Health Advisory
Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness endemic to parts of West Africa, including Nigeria. It spreads primarily through contact with food or household items contaminated with the urine or faeces of infected rodents. Prompt diagnosis and treatment significantly improve chances of recovery.
The state government has said it will convene a stakeholders’ meeting involving the Federal Medical Centre, the Teaching Hospital isolation centre, the World Health Organisation, and other partners to coordinate containment efforts.
Background: Benue residents have in recent years faced recurring Lassa fever outbreaks, with previous spikes in suspected and confirmed cases prompting ongoing public health campaigns.