Lassa Fever Outbreak in Benue Claims Four Health Workers, Over 60 Suspected Cases Recorded

The Benue State Government has confirmed a deadly Lassa fever outbreak in the state, with four health workers among the fatalities and more than 60 suspected cases now documented.

The State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Paul Ogwuche, disclosed the update on Monday while briefing journalists on the latest situation. He revealed that the ministry’s disease surveillance dashboard currently shows over 60 suspected cases of Lassa fever, with 11 confirmed infections. Of the confirmed cases, four health workers have died, and three patients remain on admission.

Ogwuche recalled that the state had earlier declared an official outbreak weeks ago after recording 53 suspected cases and three deaths. He noted that vigorous response efforts are ongoing, supported by public enlightenment campaigns and technical assistance from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

Despite persistent brain drain challenges in the health sector, the commissioner assured that all 23 general hospitals in Benue remain staffed by qualified medical doctors. He highlighted ongoing recruitment drives and infrastructure improvements across primary healthcare facilities.

While commending Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia for reforms in the sector, Ogwuche also addressed the proposed cancer treatment centre, insisting the project remains firmly on course. He explained that the facility requires specialised customisation for equipment installation and that procurement processes, supported by the state government and Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, are actively progressing.

“Having a cancer centre close to us will do us a lot of good with what people are passing through with cancer. I assure you that the project is on board. Processing and a lot of things are happening underground,” he said.

The commissioner further warned residents about the approaching meningitis season and advised avoiding overcrowded environments while maintaining strict preventive health measures.

Lassa fever is a serious viral haemorrhagic disease caused by the Lassa virus, primarily spread through contact with food, surfaces, or household items contaminated by the urine or droppings of infected multimammate rats (Mastomys natalensis). Early symptoms include fever, headache, weakness, vomiting, and muscle aches, with severe cases leading to bleeding, organ failure, and death if untreated.

Health authorities have urged residents to report symptoms early, maintain strict hygiene, store food properly, and avoid contact with rats to curb further spread of the disease.