Two Fatalities in Benue as Lassa Fever Cases Increase to Nine

Two individuals have died from Lassa fever in Benue State, shortly after the state recorded seven cases of this viral illness, raising the total suspected infections to nine.

The State's Commissioner for Health, Paul Ogwuche, shared this update on Thursday, January 22, in Makurdi, indicating a noticeable rise in cases over the previous fortnight.

"Currently, there are nine suspected cases of Lassa fever logged in our system. Five of these have tested positive, and sadly, two have resulted in fatalities," Ogwuche confirmed.

He elaborated that the reported cases are predominantly found in Buruku and Makurdi Local Government Areas, and includes two infected health professionals. "The affected individuals are located in Buruku and Makurdi Local Government Areas. Diagnosis for two cases from Buruku was made in Makurdi. Additionally, there are cases involving two healthcare workers," he specified.

The commissioner indicated that the state government has initiated its emergency response plans to manage the outbreak. "As a ministry, we have taken the necessary actions. We’ve activated our rapid response team and established our Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, implementing all required protocols," he mentioned.

Ogwuche urged the community to uphold stringent hygiene and sanitation practices, advising against contact with rodents. "It is essential for the populace to prioritize hygiene and sanitation. Avoid any contact with rodents, particularly rats. During dry seasons, rats tend to seek shelter within homes when grasses are burned. Keeping food, especially raw items, uncovered poses a risk," he warned.

Moreover, he stated that disease surveillance efforts have been heightened throughout all local government regions to facilitate early identification and management of cases. "A key strategy in controlling Lassa fever is prompt diagnosis and treatment. We have appointed disease surveillance officers in each Local Government Area, and their vigilance has been increased," he explained.

Regarding the newly reported cases, Ogwuche indicated that although the individuals are currently asymptomatic, they will be placed in isolation as a preventive measure. "The two individuals do not exhibit symptoms, yet we intend to isolate them to initiate all necessary management protocols," he clarified.

He also encouraged community members to report any symptoms such as persistent fever, fatigue, and bleeding from any body part promptly. Additionally, he mentioned that a meeting will be organized with key health stakeholders and partners to enhance containment strategies.

"We are collaborating with the Federal Medical Centre, which includes a molecular lab, the Teaching Hospital housing the state isolation centre, the World Health Organization, local epidemiology teams, and our donor partners to effectively control this alarming disease," he added.