Edo State has witnessed a concerning rise in Lassa Fever cases, with 56 confirmed instances and eight fatalities reported between December 30, 2024, and January 2025. This update was shared by Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, the Commissioner for Health, during a formal announcement in Benin on Friday.
Dr. Oshiomhole highlighted that the current epidemic year commenced on December 30, 2024, and since then, the state has seen a total of 336 suspected cases, with 56 confirmed. He emphasized the significant public health risks posed by the outbreak, noting its potential for rapid transmission and severe health consequences if not effectively managed.
Currently, 14 patients are receiving specialized treatment at the Lassa Fever Treatment Center located within the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH). Dr. Oshiomhole provided insights into the previous year’s statistics, revealing that in 2024, the state recorded 3,270 suspected cases, 292 confirmed cases, and 41 deaths. This marks a decrease from 2023, which had 65 deaths from 372 confirmed cases.
In response to the outbreak, the state has activated its Public Health Emergencies Response Management Team. This initiative involves collaboration with healthcare facilities, community leaders, and various stakeholders to effectively contain the situation. The health commissioner outlined several key measures being implemented, including enhanced surveillance, the expansion of treatment centers, Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) protocols, public awareness campaigns, and partnerships with health organizations.
Dr. Oshiomhole urged residents to remain vigilant and report any individuals exhibiting symptoms such as fever, weakness, headaches, vomiting, or bleeding to the nearest health facility for early detection and intervention. He also tasked the response team with the critical objective of reducing the Case Fatality Rate (CFR), assuring that the government is committed to bolstering efforts in managing Lassa Fever.
To further strengthen testing capabilities, the molecular laboratory at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) has been optimized for Lassa Fever diagnostics, increasing the state’s testing capacity with two dedicated centers at UBTH and ISTH.
In a related development, Dr. Ekaete Tobi of ISTH has been appointed as the state Lassa Fever Incident Manager, tasked with coordinating all outbreak control activities.
