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Four health workers infected as Benue confirms fresh Lassa fever outbreak
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56 suspected cases, 8 confirmed, 3 deaths recorded so far
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State activates emergency response, urges strict infection control
The Benue State Government has confirmed that four health workers are among the latest persons infected in the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak across the state.
The Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Paul Ogwuche, said the affected health personnel include three nurses and one community health worker, all of whom were actively providing medical services at the time they contracted the virus.
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Ogwuche made the disclosure on Tuesday while officially declaring a Lassa fever outbreak following a noticeable rise in suspected and confirmed cases, as well as fatalities recorded in different parts of the state.
According to data from the Ministry of Health, 56 suspected cases of Lassa fever have been reported so far, with eight cases laboratory confirmed.
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The outbreak has resulted in three confirmed deaths, while another death is currently classified as probable and under investigation.
The commissioner described the situation as alarming, stressing that the growing number of infections and fatalities highlights the urgent need for intensified public health measures.
“These figures are concerning and clearly show the need for immediate intervention to curb further spread and reduce loss of lives,” he said.
Ogwuche expressed deep concern over the infection of frontline health workers, noting that their exposure reflects ongoing risks within healthcare settings, especially where infection prevention measures are inadequate.
“I am particularly worried that four of our healthcare workers are affected. This highlights the dangers health professionals face daily and the need to strengthen infection prevention and control practices,” he added.
He also lamented the recent death of a Benue-born medical doctor who reportedly died from Lassa fever while on duty in Jos, Plateau State, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the risks associated with healthcare delivery.
The commissioner emphasised the importance of strict adherence to Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) guidelines in all health facilities, stating that protecting health workers remains critical to sustaining the state’s outbreak response.
He explained that the state government, in line with the directive of Governor Hyacinth Alia, has activated the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) to coordinate surveillance, case management, contact tracing and public sensitisation across all 23 local government areas.
Residents were advised to remain calm but vigilant, as Ogwuche noted that Lassa fever is commonly transmitted through contact with infected rodents, their urine or droppings, and can also spread between humans, particularly in poorly managed healthcare environments.
He listed common symptoms of the disease to include persistent fever, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, unexplained bleeding.
The Ministry of Health urged residents to maintain proper environmental hygiene, store food safely to prevent rodent infestation, avoid self-medication and promptly seek medical attention when symptoms appear, noting that early treatment significantly improves survival chances.
Members of the public were also encouraged to report suspected cases through the Benue State Lassa fever emergency hotline on 0803-929-4999 or contact the nearest Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO).
