The Edo State government has confirmed a total of 13 deaths linked to a Lassa fever outbreak in the state. Dr. Stephenson Ojeifo, Director of Public Health at the State Ministry of Health, provided this update during a press briefing on Sunday in Benin City.
Since the outbreak was declared on December 30, 2024, the state has recorded 83 confirmed cases out of 378 suspected instances of the virus.
Dr. Ojeifo stated, “So far, we have 83 confirmed Lassa fever cases, with 13 deaths. Seven patients are currently receiving treatment, while others have been discharged.”
The fatalities have primarily occurred in the local government areas of Etsako West, Esan West, and Esan North-East, which are considered the epicenters of the outbreak. Dr. Ojeifo noted that the high mortality rate can be attributed to late presentation at health facilities.
To combat the outbreak, the state government is collaborating with private hospitals to ensure timely referrals to the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, the designated center for Lassa fever treatment. Health officials from both the state and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control are actively conducting contact tracing within affected communities.
Dr. Ojeifo emphasized the importance of early medical intervention, stating, “Lassa fever initially presents with symptoms similar to malaria, until it reaches an advanced stage. We are sensitizing communities to seek medical attention if a fever persists beyond 72 hours.”
He also urged residents to avoid self-medication and to seek immediate care if they experience symptoms resembling malaria.
