Control1stAdmin1
… 56 Suspected Cases, Three Deaths Recorded
From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi
The Ministry of Health and Human Services in Benue State has declared officially an outbreak of Lassa Fever following a noticeable rise in suspected and confirmed cases, including reported fatalities across the state.
The Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, made the declaration in a statement issued to journalists in Makurdi on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
He said the current situation has necessitated urgent public health action to prevent further spread of the disease.
According to epidemiological data released by the Ministry, Benue State has recorded a total of 56 suspected cases of Lassa Fever.
He noted that while eight of these cases have been confirmed in the laboratory, three deaths have been recorded among confirmed patients and one additional probable death under investigation.
The Commissioner said “The figures indicate a high case fatality rate among confirmed cases, raising serious concern among health authorities.
Dr. Ogwuche expressed worry over the impact of the outbreak on frontline health workers, noting that four healthcare professionals, three nurses and one community health worker are among those affected.
He also paid tribute to a Benue-born medical doctor who recently died of Lassa Fever while serving in Jos, Plateau State, describing the loss as a painful reminder of the risks faced daily by healthcare workers.
The Commissioner stressed the need for strict compliance with Infection Prevention and Control measures in all health facilities to protect both patients and medical personnel.
He explained that the state government’s response is driven by Governor Hyacinth Alia’s deep concern for the health and wellbeing of the people of Benue State.
In line with this commitment, the government has activated the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre to coordinate surveillance, case management, contact tracing, and public sensitization efforts across all 23 local government areas.
He urged members of the public to remain calm but vigilant while other health officials explained that Lassa Fever is mainly transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their urine and droppings, and can also spread from person to person, particularly in healthcare settings where infection control measures are inadequate.
According to them common symptoms of the disease include persistent high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, unexplained bleeding.
The Commissioner advised residents to maintain good environmental hygiene, properly store food to prevent rodent infestation, avoid self-medication, and seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if symptoms develop, noting that early detection and treatment significantly improve survival.
He also stated that suspected cases are to be reported promptly through the Benue State Lassa Fever emergency hotline on 0803-929-4999 or to the nearest Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer reiterating that early reporting is critical to saving lives and containing the outbreak.
