Lassa Fever: Oyo Records Casualty, Activates Emergency Responce

Oyo State government has confirmed a Lassa Fever case at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.

The case involved a 44-year-old female who was managed at UCH and unfortunately passed away on the 11 April 2026 ,while the Laboratory confirmation of Lassa Fever was received on 13 April 2026.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi said the state government, through the Ministry of Health, immediately activated its emergency response mechanisms following the confirmation of the case adding that the Incident Management System (IMS) for Lassa Fever to coordinate all response activities.

The commissioner explained that key steps have been taken to identify and monitor all contacts of the deceased, ensuring that a safe and dignified burial is conducted.

Ajetunmobi urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness or extreme fatigue, sore throat, vomiting or diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding (from gums, nose, urine, or injection sites), chest pain or difficulty in breathing.

She emphasized that early presentation at any health facility would significantly improve chances of survival.

The commissioner further explained that Lassa Fever was a viral haemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus which is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by urine or faeces of infected rodents.

She stressed that the disease could spread from person to person through contact with bodily fluids of an infected individual, particularly in healthcare settings where appropriate precautions are not taken.

The commissioner advised residents to maintain a high level of environmental hygiene by keeping their homes and surroundings clean, storing foods in rodent-proof containers, disposing wastes properly and avoiding drying of food items on the floor or by the roadside.

“They should take deliberate steps to avoid contact with rodents by sealing holes and other entry points in their homes.

“Good personal hygiene must be practiced at all times, including regular hand washing with soap and water, and the use of hand sanitizers where necessary.

“Furthermore, anyone experiencing symptoms of Lassa Fever is advised to promptly report through the designated emergency lines while all health workers are enjoined to strictly adhere to infection prevention and control protocols at all times,” she added.

She reiterated that Oyo State government remained fully committed to protecting the health and safety of all residents.

She noted that surveillance has been intensified across the State, and all health facilities have been placed on high alert.

Consequently, she said the state government was strengthening collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and effective response.

The commissioner assured that there was no cause for panic and the situation is under control.

“All necessary public health measures are being effectively implemented. Lassa Fever is preventable and treatable, especially when detected early,” she added.