Lassa Fever has claimed 13 lives in Edo State, Nigeria, with 83 confirmed cases and 378 suspected cases reported since the outbreak was declared on December 30, 2024. The Director of Public Health, Dr. Stephenson Ojeifo, confirmed the deaths and added that three cases of Mpox (Monkeypox) were also recorded, but with no fatalities.
The fatalities were recorded in Etsako West, Esan West, and Esan North-East Local Government Areas, which are the epicenters of the outbreak. Dr. Ojeifo attributed the high mortality rate to late presentation at health facilities.
To combat the outbreak, the state government is working with private hospitals to ensure timely referrals to the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, the designated center for Lassa Fever treatment. Health officials are also conducting contact tracing in affected communities.
Symptoms and Prevention:
- Lassa fever initially presents with symptoms similar to malaria.
- Residents are advised to seek medical attention if a fever persists beyond 72 hours.
- Avoid self-medication and seek immediate care at the nearest hospital if symptoms resembling malaria occur.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention is also working to contain the outbreak.
