Health
Benue health authorities maintain vigilance as Lassa fever cases remain low.
From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi
The Benue State Government has recorded one laboratory-confirmed case of Lassa fever in the last one month, with no death reported during the period.
The Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr.
Ogwuche said that although the peak transmission season has declined, the Ministry of Health and Human Services has continued intensive disease surveillance and rapid response activities across all 23 local government areas to prevent any resurgence of the disease.
He noted that Lassa fever remains endemic in Nigeria, making it necessary for the state to sustain early detection, laboratory testing, effective case management, infection prevention and control measures, as well as continuous public awareness campaigns.
According to the commissioner, the ministry investigated 45 suspected cases during the period under review, but laboratory tests confirmed only one positive case, while all other samples returned negative results.
He stated that no Lassa fever-related death was recorded, describing the outcome as evidence of the effectiveness of the state’s disease surveillance system, prompt response mechanisms and improved clinical management.
Ogwuche attributed the achievement to the commitment of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration, saying the government has continued to invest in disease surveillance, emergency preparedness, healthcare delivery and strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening the state’s health system.
He said the government has sustained measures including continuous surveillance and prompt reporting of suspected cases, rapid laboratory confirmation, strengthened infection prevention and control practices in public and private health facilities, regular training of healthcare workers, and public enlightenment on environmental sanitation, food hygiene and rodent control.
The commissioner added that the ministry is working closely with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and other development partners to sustain the gains already recorded in the state’s response to the disease.
He also said community engagement has been intensified through traditional rulers, religious leaders, community volunteers and the media to promote preventive practices, encourage early health-seeking behaviour and improve public awareness on Lassa fever prevention.
Ogwuche reassured residents that the state government remains committed to protecting lives through sustained investments in disease prevention, surveillance, emergency preparedness and rapid response systems.
He urged the public to maintain good environmental sanitation, store food properly to prevent contamination by rodents, avoid contact with rodents and their droppings, and immediately seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness, sore throat, vomiting or unexplained bleeding.
He stressed that early diagnosis and prompt treatment remain the most effective ways to improve survival and prevent the spread of Lassa fever.
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