Kehinde Fajobi
The Edo State government on Friday declared a new outbreak of Lassa Fever, urging residents to remain vigilant, promptly report suspected cases, and maintain proper hygiene to minimise the presence of rodents, particularly the long-nosed rats that are the primary carriers of the disease.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, made the announcement during a press conference, confirming the activation of the Incident Management Structure (IMS) to tackle the outbreak.
Dr Ekaete Tobi of Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH) has been appointed as the State Lassa Fever Incident Manager, while Dr Osahogie Edeawe of ISTH will serve as the Case Manager.
“Additionally, all pillar leads and teams, including Surveillance, Laboratory, Logistics, Vector Control, Infection Prevention and Control, Risk Communication, and Case Management, are hereby activated,” Oshiomhole said.
He emphasised that early detection and treatment are crucial, stating, “This declaration follows the confirmation of several cases of Lassa Fever in the state through laboratory testing.
“The outbreak poses a significant public health concern due to its potential for rapid transmission and severe outcomes if not effectively managed.”
To contain the outbreak, the commissioner outlined key measures, including:
Strengthening disease surveillance systems for early detection and reporting.
Expanding treatment capacity at designated centres for confirmed cases.
Educating the public on preventive practices like hygiene, rodent control, and safe food storage.
Equipping healthcare workers with protective gear and training on Lassa Fever management.
Partnering with national and international health organisations for technical and logistical support.
Dr Oshiomhole noted that Lassa Fever remains endemic in Edo State and highlighted progress made in combating the disease.
In 2024, the state recorded 3,270 suspected cases, 292 of which were confirmed, with 41 deaths, resulting in a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 14%.
“This marked an improvement from the 2023 outbreak, where 3,764 suspected cases and 372 confirmed cases resulted in 65 deaths, a CFR of 17.595%. Our goal remains achieving a single-digit or zero CFR,” he said.
He attributed the progress to collaboration with state officials, the One Health team, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), ISTH, the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), and other partners.
Residents were reminded of the importance of hygiene and vigilance in mitigating the spread of the disease.