Hussaini Ibrahim 
JOS, Nigeria – Plateau State records 28 confirmed cases of Lassa fever across seven local government areas, with four fatalities, as health authorities intensify containment measures to curb further spread.
The Plateau State Government confirms that the cases are detected through enhanced disease surveillance and laboratory testing, activated amid heightened concerns over seasonal outbreaks of the viral haemorrhagic fever.
Health officials say rapid response teams are already deployed to affected communities, focusing on case management, contact tracing, and public awareness campaigns. Isolation centres and treatment facilities have also been placed on high alert.
“We are strengthening surveillance and ensuring prompt treatment of confirmed cases,” a health official says, adding that early intervention remains critical to reducing fatalities.
Lassa fever, transmitted primarily through contact with rodent urine or contaminated food, remains endemic in several parts of Nigeria, particularly during the dry season when human-rodent contact increases.
Authorities urge residents to adopt strict preventive measures, including proper food storage, frequent handwashing, and maintaining clean environments to deter rodents.
Health workers advise anyone experiencing persistent fever, weakness, headaches, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding to seek immediate medical attention, stressing that early diagnosis significantly improves survival chances.
The Plateau State Ministry of Health reiterates its commitment to protecting public health and calls on communities to cooperate fully with response teams to prevent further transmission.
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Chukwu Obinna 
Oluwatobi Adu 
Mirian Gom 