Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Edo State Government has confirmed 13 deaths from the Lassa Fever outbreak in the state between December 2024 and February 2025.
According to Director of Public Health in the State’s Ministry of Health Dr. Stephenson Ojeifo, “But, as at today, of that number 83 were confirmed positive for the disease with 13 mortality. Seven are still receiving treatment while others have been discharged.” The state also recorded three confirmed cases of Monkey pox, Mpox, with no mortality.
Ojeifo attributed the mortality to late presentation of patients to the hospital for examination and treatment. He emphasized that Lassa Fever presents symptoms like malaria until it reaches an advanced stage, and urged the community to seek medical treatment promptly.
“So, we are sensitizing the community that when any one has a fever that is not resolved within 72 hours they should immediately seek medical treatment at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, ISTH,” he said.
The state government says it’s is working to address the outbreak, liaising with private hospitals to ensure prompt referrals to the designated treatment center. Officials have also visited the affected local governments for contact tracing.
Ojeifo cautioned against self-medication, advising individuals to report to the nearest hospital when experiencing symptoms like malaria. Edo State is among the areas in Nigeria most affected by Lassa Fever, along with Ondo and Bauchi states.
