A surge in Lassa fever infections has been reported in Benue State, with 45 confirmed cases and at least 10 deaths out of around 250 suspected infections, according to health officials.
State health authorities have expressed alarm at the rapid spread of the viral hemorrhagic disease, particularly its transmission among frontline healthcare workers.
Among those infected are doctors, nurses, community health workers and a hospital porter, highlighting gaps in infection prevention and control within medical facilities.
The State Epidemiologist, Dr. Msuega Asema, provided the updated figures during an assessment tour at isolation centres in the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) and the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Apir in Makurdi.
Dr. Ogwuche said the state government officially declared a Lassa fever outbreak on February 3, 2026, and has since stepped up containment measures.
He urged residents not to panic but to remain vigilant, emphasising that authorities are working to stop human-to-human transmission, which has driven recent infections among healthcare staff.
Surveillance teams have been deployed across all 23 local government areas to strengthen contact tracing, community engagement, and early detection, the commissioner added.
Health officials have called on anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever, weakness, headache or bleeding, to seek care immediately.
Public and Healthcare Worker Safety
Experts say the outbreak is unusual compared with past years and underscores the persistent threat posed by Lassa fever in Nigeria’s health system.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to containing the outbreak and supporting affected families, while health officials continue to push for stronger prevention measures, improved facility readiness, and community cooperation.
