Lassa Fever Outbreak Claims Lives in Taraba and Benue States

Lassa fever has led to numerous fatalities in Taraba and Benue states, with Taraba reporting 35 confirmed cases out of 226 suspected, according to Dr. Suleiman Abubakar Kirim from the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo.

Three hospital staff contracted the virus, with ongoing treatment for 20 patients. In Benue, 45 confirmed cases and 250 suspected infections were reported, affecting 10 health personnel, including five doctors and four nurses.

The outbreak was officially declared on February 3, with measures to enhance surveillance and contact tracing across 23 local government areas. Plateau State recorded four deaths from 11 positive cases, while Edo State confirmed 29 cases and six deaths, particularly in the Etsako West Local Government Area.

The state health ministry has taken proactive steps to manage the recurring outbreak, including appointing coordinators for clinic management.