Edo Govt Declares Outbreak Of Lassa Fever In Edo North, Edo Central
Dr. Cyril Oshiomhgole, Edo State Commissioner for Health
…As Dr. Oshiomhole urges residents to remain calm but be vigilant
By Simeon OSAJIE
The Edo State government has declared outbreak of Lassa Fever in Etsako West local government area of Edo North Senatorial District and Esan West local government area of Edo Central Senatorial District of the state.
Briefing newsmen in Benin, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole disclosed that the declaration follows the confirmation of several cases of Lassa Fever in the state through laboratory testing. He said that the outbreak poses a significant public health concern due to its potential for rapid transmission and severe outcomes if not effectively managed.
To contain this outbreak, Dr. Oshiomhole disclosed that the State Public Health Emergencies Response Management Team has activated its emergency response mechanisms which will collaborating with healthcare facilities, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders strengthening disease surveillance system to promptly identify and report cases.
He urged all residents of Edo State to remain calm but vigilant. “If you or anyone around you exhibits symptoms such as fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, or bleeding, please report to the nearest health facility immediately. Early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes,” he added.
While stating that Lassa Fever is one of the viral haemorrhagic diseases endemic to Edo State, and its recurrence remains a concern, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole disclosed that in 2024, the state recorded 3,270 suspected cases, of which 292 were confirmed positive with 41 deaths, representing a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 14.0%. This he stated, marked an improvement from the 2023 outbreak, where 3,764 suspected cases and 372 confirmed cases resulted in 65 deaths (CFR of 17.595). Our goal remains achieving a single-digit or zero CFR.
He noted: “This progress in 2024 was made possible through the dedication of state officials, the one health team, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), partners, the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), and other stakeholders.
“Significantly, the molecular laboratory at UBTH was optimized for Lassa Fever testing, giving Edo State two testing centers: one at UBTH and another at ISTH This enhancement has strengthened the state’s testing capacity and response capabilities.
“The 2025 epidemic year began on December 30, 2024. Since then, the state has recorded 336 suspected cases, of which 56 have been confirmed positive, with 8 deaths. Currently, 14 patients are receiving expert care at ISTH’’s Lassa Fever treatment center.”
The Commissioner for Health thereafter activates the Incident Management Structure (IMS) with Dr. Ekaete Tobi of Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH) as the State Lassa Fever Incident Manager for the 2025 outbreak response.
“Additionally, all pillar leads and teams, including Surveillance, Laboratory, Logistics, Vector Control, Infection Prevention and Control, Risk Communication, and Case Management, are hereby activated. I appoint Dr. Osahogie Edeawe of ISTH as Case Manager.
“I urge everyone to redouble their efforts in the 2025 response to drastically reduce the Case Fatality Rate (CFR). The state government remains committed to providing the necessary support to achieve this goal,” he said.
While commending the dedication of all stakeholders involved in the fight against Lassa Fever, Dr. Oshiomhgole extend his gratitude for your unwavering commitment to safeguarding, public health in Edo State. “Together, we can overcome this outbreak and protect the well-being of our communities,” he said.
