Edo Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, said the State has recorded 56 Lassa fever cases and eight deaths.
Speaking in Benin, he said the outbreak posed significant public health concern in view of its potential for rapid transmission and severe outcomes, if not effectively managed.
Oshiomhole said: “The 2025 epidemic year began on December 30, 2024. Since then, Edo State has recorded 336 suspected cases, of which 56 have been confirmed positive, with eight deaths.”
He also stated that the figures were recorded between December 30, 2024 and January 24, 2025.
He said 14 patients were receiving experts’ care at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital’s (ISTH’s) Lassa fever treatment centre.
Oshiomhole noted that Edo recorded 3,270 suspected cases in 2024, of which 292 were confirmed positive, with 41 deaths, while the 2024 figures marked an improvement from the 2023 outbreak, where 3,764 suspected cases and 372 confirmed cases resulted in 65 deaths.
He said: “To contain the outbreak, Edo State Public Health Emergencies Response Management Team has activated its emergency response mechanisms. We are collaborating with healthcare facilities, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to implement measures against the disease.
“We are placing emphasis on enhanced surveillance, more treatment centres, public awareness campaigns, infection prevention and control, and collaboration with partners.
“Edo residents should be vigilant and report anyone around them that exhibits symptoms such as fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, or bleeding to the nearest health facility immediately. Early detention and treatment significantly improve outcomes.”
He urged members of the response team to redouble their efforts to drastically reduce the case fatality rate, while assuring of government’s commitment to providing the necessary support.
He revealed that the molecular laboratory at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) had been optimised for Lassa fever testing, thereby bringing to two, including that of ISTH, thereby strengthening Edo state’s testing capacity and response capabilities.
Oshiomhole, while activating Edo response team, appointed Dr. Ekaete Tobi of ISTH as the state’s Lassa fever incident manager.
