Benue reports Lassa fever outbreak

The Benue State government has announced an outbreak of Lassa fever following a concerning rise in cases over the past four years.

Speaking at a press conference in Makurdi on Monday, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Yanmar Ortese, revealed that the state had recorded 40 suspected cases this year alone, with five confirmed infections and three deaths.

This translates to a 60 percent Case Fatality Rate (CFR).

According to Dr. Ortese, Lassa fever remains a severe viral disease primarily spread through contact with infected rodents or their excreta.

He warned that the situation required urgent attention to prevent further loss of lives.

“We are deeply concerned about the rising cases of Lassa fever in Benue. In just the first two months of this year, we have already recorded three deaths. This calls for immediate action from both the government and the people,” he stated.

The commissioner outlined symptoms of the disease, which include high fever, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, unexplained bleeding.

To curb infections, the state government has launched rodent control initiatives, including community clean-up campaigns and environmental sanitation drives.

“We urge all residents to store food in sealed containers, maintain hygiene, and report any suspected cases immediately,” Dr. Ortese advised.

He also raised concerns about the increasing rate of snake bites in the state, citing that 199 cases had been recorded at General Hospital, Gbajimgba in Guma Local Government Area between July and December 2024.