Edo State has reported 56 confirmed Lassa fever cases and 8 deaths between December 2024 and January 2025. The government has activated emergency health measures, including enhanced surveillance, treatment centers, and public awareness campaigns, to manage the outbreak and reduce fatalities.
The Edo State government has reported 56 confirmed cases of Lassa fever and 8 deaths between December 30, 2024, and January 2025. The health commissioner, Cyril Oshiomhole, stated that 336 suspected cases were reported, with the state seeing a slight decline in fatalities compared to the previous year.
The outbreak has raised concerns due to the rapid transmission of the disease and the severity of its effects if not managed promptly. A total of 14 patients are currently being treated at the Lassa Fever Treatment Centre at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital.
In response to the outbreak, the state has activated its public health emergency management team, collaborating with healthcare facilities, community leaders, and health organizations. Measures such as enhanced surveillance, expanded treatment centers, and public awareness campaigns are being implemented to curb the spread of the virus.
Oshiomhole urged residents to report symptoms such as fever, weakness, headaches, vomiting, and bleeding immediately to health facilities for early intervention. The state government is committed to reducing the case fatality rate and providing additional support to improve Lassa fever management in the region. These actions are part of a broader strategy to mitigate the public health risks posed by the disease.
