Edo Govt Urges Vigilance Over Outbreak Of Lassa Fever

Edo State government yesterday said there was a new outbreak of Lassa fever and urged the people to quickly report any suspected case and improve on their hygienic conditions to reduce the presence of rodents, particularly long-mouthed rats which are the major carriers.

The commissioner for health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, stated this at a press conference where he also disclosed that the government had activated the Incident Management Structure (IMS) and appointing Dr. Ekaete Tobi of Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH) as the State Lassa Fever Incident Manager for the 2025 outbreak response.

“Additionally, all pillar leads and teams, including Surveillance, Laboratory, Logistics, Vector Control, Infection Prevention and Control, Risk Communication, and Case Management, are hereby activated. I appointed Dr. Osahogie eawe of ISTH as Case Manager,” he said.

He said early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes and urged the people to be vigilant.

He said “This declaration follows the confirmation of several cases of Lassa fever in the state through laboratory testing. The outbreak poses a significant public health concern due to its potential for rapid transmission and severe outcomes if not effectively managed.”