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From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The State Commissioner for Health and Human Services in Benue State, Dr Yanmar Ortese, has declared an outbreak of Lassa fever as the state has recorded 40 suspected cases.
Ortese, who made the disclosure at a press briefing in Makurdi on Monday, said out of the 40 suspected cases, five persons have been confirmed to have contracted the disease, while three others have died.
He said after a comprehensive risk analysis, the ministry decided to officially declare the outbreak of Lassa fever in Benue as the figures represent a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 60 percent.
He also disclosed that a 10-member National Rapid Response Team (NRRT) has been deployed to the state, in partnership with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), to strengthen the response capabilities of the state in handling the situation at hand.
According to the Commissioner, “Benue State has battled recurrent outbreaks of Lassa Fever over the past four years, with each successive year recording a higher number of cases than the previous one.
“This year, we have recorded 40 suspected cases, with 5 confirmed cases and 3 deaths. This represents a CFR of 60%. In light of these alarming figures, a comprehensive risk analysis was conducted, and today, we officially declare a Lassa Fever outbreak in Benue state.
“This declaration serves as a call to immediate, coordinated, and collaborative action to safeguard our communities and effectively manage the situation.”
According to him, “In partnership with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), a 10-member National Rapid Response Team (NRRT) has been deployed to Benue State.
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“Their expertise is critical in strengthening our response capabilities. All suspected cases are being managed under strict isolation protocols at designated treatment centres to ensure that infected individuals receive prompt care while minimising the risk of further transmission.
“To address the primary source of infection, enhanced rodent control initiatives, including community clean-up campaigns and environmental sanitation drives, will be launched immediately. Citizens are urged to store food in sealed containers and maintain cleanliness in and around their homes.
“Our Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) is actively monitoring the situation and will provide regular updates, and enhance Risk Communication and Community Engagement. Accurate information is vital for keeping our communities informed and safe.
“We encourage community members to report any unusual health occurrences through our established channels. Your feedback is invaluable in refining our response efforts.”
Ortese also noted that “Alongside our immediate measures, we are implementing long-term strategies to strengthen our public health infrastructure and prevent future outbreaks. The safety and well-being of our citizens remain our highest priority.
“In these challenging times, collective action is essential. We call upon all citizens, health professionals, and community leaders to adhere to the preventive measures outlined and support our coordinated response. With your cooperation and the steadfast support of our partners, we are confident in our ability to overcome this outbreak and safeguard the health of Benue State,” he said confidently.
While the teams are working to contain the outbreak and protect the public health of the state, the Commissioner advised all citizens to be vigilant for symptoms such as high fever, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, unexplained bleeding, saying early recognition is essential to ensure timely treatment.
“If you experience these symptoms or suspect exposure to Lassa Fever, please contact your nearest healthcare facility immediately. For additional guidance, our dedicated hotline is available at 0803-929-4999. Further information can also be accessed through the Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs) of the 23 LGAs,” he said.
Meanwhile, the National Incident Manager for Lassa Fever at NCDC, Yetunde Abioye, allayed fears that her office has withdrawn its services from Benue State. She said every life in the state matters and NCDC is committed to working with the state government and other stakeholders to contain the disease.
