Lassa Fever: Edo Reports 10 New Cases, Alarming Death Toll
The Edo State Ministry of Health has confirmed an additional 10 cases of the deadly Lassa fever, pushing the total number of infected individuals in the state to a staggering 81, with eight unfortunate fatalities.
During a press briefing held in Benin City over the weekend, Prof. Obehi Akoria, the Commissioner for Health in Edo State, disclosed that the recently reported cases were detected across five local government areas: Etsako West, Esan North East, Esan West, Akoko Edo, and Etsako Central.
With an unwavering determination to stem the spread of this pandemic and safeguard the health and well-being of residents, Prof. Akoria reassured the public of the government’s ardent commitment. She urged citizens to collaborate by adhering to preventive protocols in order to curb the transmission of the disease.
The 81 confirmed cases are distributed across 11 local government areas within the state. Etsako West has the highest number with 33 cases, followed by Esan West with 19, Esan North East with 16, Esan Central and Esan South East with two cases each. Other affected areas include Etsako East, Owan East, Akoko Edo, Ovia North East, Oredo, and Etsako Central, each with two or fewer confirmed cases.
Expressing deep concern over the mounting death toll, the Commissioner stated that the state now possesses a distressing case fatality rate of 10%. The tragic loss of lives occurred in four local government areas: Etsako West recorded four deaths, Esan North East and Etsako East reported two each, while Oredo experienced one fatality.
Prof. Akoria emphasized that most of the fatalities were individuals who delayed seeking proper medical attention despite being unwell, leading to severe complications.
She implored residents to assume personal responsibility and collaborate closely with the Ministry of Health. “It is crucial for individuals to observe preventive measures diligently and to promptly report any early symptoms resembling malaria or any other illnesses for immediate medical attention.” she said.
