Lassa Fever Outbreak in Benue State Claims Four Health Workers’ Lives
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A Lassa fever outbreak in Benue has claimed four healthcare workers, according to the report coming from the Benue State Government. The affected workers are three nurses and one community health worker who were actively serving in the state when they contracted the disease.
Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, disclosed this information on Tuesday while formally declaring the Lassa outbreak, as there is now a surge in suspected and confirmed cases as well as reported deaths across different parts of the state.
The figures released by the Ministry of Health show that 56 suspected cases of the Lassa fever outbreak have been recorded so far. Out of this number, eight cases have been laboratory confirmed.
Three deaths have been confirmed among the positive cases, while one additional probable death is currently under investigation. Dr. Ogwuche described the situation as worrisome and said the fatality rate highlights the seriousness of the Lassa fever outbreak in Benue.
Ogwuche said, “These numbers are troubling and demand immediate public health action to prevent further spread of the disease and reduce fatalities.”
The commissioner expressed deep concern over the infection of frontline health workers, noting that their exposure reveals ongoing risks and gaps in the fever prevention and control measures within health facilities.
“I am particularly worried that four of our healthcare workers, three nurses and a community health worker, are among those infected. This underscores the risks our health professionals face in the line of duty,” Ogwuche stated.
The commissioner also mourned a medical doctor of Benue origin who recently died from Lassa fever while on duty in Jos, Plateau State. He described the incident as “a painful reminder of the sacrifices and risks associated with healthcare service.”
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Dr. Ogwuche stressed the need for strict compliance with infection prevention and control protocols across all health facilities. He said protecting health workers is critical to sustaining an effective response to the Lassa fever outbreak in Benue
He added that the state response aligns with the commitment of Governor Hyacinth Alia to protect residents. According to him, the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre has been activated to coordinate surveillance, case management, contact tracing, and public sensitization across the 23 local government areas.
Benue residents were advised to remain calm but vigilant, as the commissioner explained that Lassa fever outbreak in benue is mainly transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their urine and droppings. He added that the disease can also spread from person to person, especially in healthcare settings with poor infection control.
Common symptoms of the Lassa fever outbreak in Benue include persistent high fever, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, and diarrhea, while severe cases may involve unexplained bleeding. The Ministry of Health urged residents to maintain proper sanitation, store food safely to deter rodents, and avoid self-medication.
Members of the public were advised to seek prompt medical attention when symptoms appear, noting that early treatment greatly improves survival. Suspected cases can be reported through the Benue State Lassa Fever emergency hotline on 0803 929 4999 or to the nearest Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer.
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