Benue State Reports 383 Suspected Lassa Fever Cases

As of Tuesday, Benue State has recorded 383 suspected cases of Lassa Fever, with 47 confirmed positive cases and a total of 14 deaths since the outbreak began. Dr. Paul Ogwuch, the Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, provided this update, noting that the number of suspected cases has risen from 251 to 383.

Dr. Msuega Asema, the state epidemiologist, indicated that there have been no deaths recorded in the past 11 days, during which laboratory tests confirmed six positive cases. Currently, 20 patients are isolated at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and six federal medical centers in Makurdi.

Ogwuch attributed the positive developments to a massive sensitization and educational campaign supported by partners, including MSF Nigeria and the NCDC. The campaign aims to improve early detection and treatment, which is crucial for reducing mortality rates.

Surveillance efforts are ongoing across 23 local government areas to monitor and manage the outbreak effectively.