Lassa Fever Outbreak Hits Benue State: Nine Lives Lost in Two Months”
Lassa Fever Outbreak Hits Benue State: Nine Lives Lost in Two Months"
Lassa Fever Outbreak Hits Benue State: Nine Lives Lost in Two Months”
Benue state is grappling with a severe Lassa fever outbreak, with nine lives lost in just two months, according to Dr. Sam Ngishe, the state epidemiologist. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Feb. 29, Dr. Ngishe highlighted the concerning situation, especially within Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps where the disease has claimed some victims.
Dr. Ngishe emphasized the high population of rats within the IDP camps, underscoring the need for urgent action to prevent further spread. So far, 46 individuals, including health workers and IDPs, have been affected across the state.
The outbreak has particularly impacted the Ortese IDP camp in the Guma Local Government Area, with four confirmed cases identified. The disease has also spread to seven other local government areas, including Obi, Okpokwu, Gwer West, Makurdi, Guma, Gwer East, and Ukum.
Addressing the situation, Dr. Ngishe highlighted the importance of safe burial protocols and intensified efforts to reduce the fatality rate, which currently exceeds the national average. He also pointed out the challenges posed by the IDP camp environment, such as poor sanitation, overcrowding, and malnutrition, which contribute to the spread of infectious diseases.
Active surveillance is underway in the community, particularly within the Ortese IDP camp, where control measures are urgently needed to mitigate the risk of further transmission.
