The Benue State Government has officially declared an outbreak of Lassa fever following a rise in cases across the state. Health authorities have recorded 56 suspected cases, 8 laboratory-confirmed infections, and 3 deaths, prompting the activation of an emergency public health response.
The declaration was made after epidemiological surveillance and laboratory results confirmed ongoing transmission in parts of the state. The Commissioner for Health and Human Services disclosed that the confirmed cases include healthcare workers, raising concerns about occupational exposure and the risk of in-hospital transmission if infection prevention measures are not strictly observed.
In response to the situation, the Benue State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre has been fully activated. Rapid response teams have been deployed to affected areas to intensify surveillance, carry out contact tracing, and strengthen case management. Health facilities across the state have been placed on high alert, with renewed emphasis on infection prevention and control practices to protect both patients and medical personnel.
Authorities have also commenced community sensitisation and risk-communication campaigns to educate residents on early symptoms, transmission routes and preventive measures. Residents have been advised to maintain proper hygiene, store food safely to prevent rodent contamination, dispose of refuse appropriately, and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as persistent fever, headache, vomiting or unexplained bleeding. Self-medication has been strongly discouraged.
Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness endemic in Nigeria and other parts of West Africa. It is commonly transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated with urine or faeces of infected rodents, and can also spread from person to person, particularly in healthcare settings. Transmission risk typically increases during the dry season when rodents are more likely to enter homes.
Health officials stressed that early detection and prompt treatment significantly improve survival outcomes, assuring the public that efforts are underway to contain the outbreak and prevent further loss of life. The state government has called for calm while urging full cooperation with health authorities as the emergency response continues.
