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Panic has swept through Ogbadibo and Okpokwu Local Government Areas in Benue State following the death of a 54-year-old woman from Lassa fever, confirmed by health authorities. The victim, a resident of Ogbadibo LGA, passed away on Sunday at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) in Makurdi after laboratory tests verified the viral hemorrhagic illness.
The incident has triggered widespread anxiety, with residents fearing further transmission. Sources close to the deceased’s family revealed that a medical team from the Benue State Ministry of Health swiftly moved into the affected communities to trace and monitor individuals who had contact with the woman before her death.
Community Resistance and Swift Response
Tensions escalated when the woman’s remains were initially deposited at a private morgue in Ugbokolo, Okpokwu LGA. During preparations for burial, agitated youths reportedly seized the body, prompting intervention from state officials.
Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the State Commissioner for Health and Human Resources, confirmed the developments to journalists on Thursday. Leading a delegation of health experts and security personnel, he ensured the situation was contained.
“During initial response efforts, the ministry’s Rapid Response Team was confronted by some agitated youths while trying to conduct a safe burial,” Dr. Ogwuche stated. “Through dialogue with the family, traditional rulers, and youth leaders, the body was successfully retrieved and safely buried in Orokam, Ogbadibo LGA, by the State Safe Burial Team, in line with WHO and NCDC protocols.”
As a precautionary measure, the commissioner ordered the immediate closure of the private hospital and mortuary involved. The facilities will remain shut pending thorough decontamination, disinfection, and an epidemiological investigation.
All hospital staff and close contacts of the deceased have been placed under strict surveillance. Health education campaigns emphasizing hygiene practices and early reporting of symptoms have also been rolled out across both LGAs to curb panic and prevent misinformation.
A Recurring Public Health Threat
Lassa fever continues to pose a significant challenge in Benue State. Earlier in September 2025, the state epidemiologist, Dr. Asema Msuega, disclosed that 243 suspected cases and 13 confirmed deaths—including one healthcare worker—had been recorded between January and September.
Dr. Ogwuche urged residents to exercise caution, particularly in handling corpses of individuals suspected to have died from infectious diseases. He advised the public to report prolonged fever, unexplained bleeding, or other suspicious symptoms to the nearest health facility without delay.
Staying Safe: Key Preventive Measures
Health experts recommend the following to reduce Lassa fever risk:
- Maintain good hygiene: Regular handwashing and proper food storage to avoid rodent contamination.
- Avoid contact with infected persons or materials: Especially blood, urine, or other bodily fluids.
- Seek early medical care: Prompt testing and isolation can save lives.
Local leaders have been commended for their cooperation in managing the crisis, but authorities stress that community vigilance remains critical.
For real-time updates on this and other health developments in Nigeria, stay connected with reliable sources. Early detection and collective action are our strongest defenses against outbreaks like Lassa fever.
Source: PUNCH Newspapers
