The Edo State government has confirmed 56 cases of Lassa fever and eight fatalities between December 30, 2024, and January 2025, according to Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, the state commissioner for health.
Dr Oshiomhole announced the outbreak during a press briefing in Benin on Friday, highlighting its significant public health threat due to its rapid spread and potentially severe consequences.
“The 2025 epidemic year began on December 30, 2024. Since then, 336 suspected cases have been recorded, with 56 confirmed and eight resulting in death,” Oshiomhole stated.
Currently, 14 patients are undergoing treatment at the Lassa Fever Treatment Centre in Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH).
The commissioner noted a decline in cases compared to previous years, with 292 confirmed cases and 41 deaths in 2024, compared to 372 cases and 65 deaths in 2023.
To combat the outbreak, the state has activated its Public Health Emergencies Response Management Team in collaboration with healthcare facilities, community leaders, and stakeholders.
Key measures include improved surveillance, expanded treatment facilities, infection control, public education campaigns, and partnerships with health organisations.
Residents have been urged to report symptoms such as fever, weakness, headaches, vomiting, or bleeding to the nearest health centre for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
The government has also optimised the molecular laboratory at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), increasing the state’s testing capacity with two centres at UBTH and ISTH.
Dr. Ekaete Tobi of ISTH has been appointed as the state Lassa fever incident manager to oversee outbreak management efforts.
The commissioner reassured residents of the government’s commitment to reducing the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) and strengthening response strategies.
