The Benue State Government has confirmed additional deaths linked to the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak in the state, raising fresh concerns as health authorities intensify efforts to contain the disease.
Speaking on Thursday in Makurdi during a workshop on the 2026 Annual Operational Plan of the Benue State Action Committee on AIDS, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Paul Ogwuche, provided an updated report on the situation.
According to him, the state has so far recorded 251 suspected cases of Lassa fever, out of which 46 have been confirmed, with 11 deaths reported as of March 4, 2026.
The commissioner also revealed that 13 healthcare workers have contracted the virus, highlighting the risk faced by frontline medical personnel. Those affected include five doctors, one pharmacist, four nurses, two Community Health Extension Workers, and one hospital porter.
Currently, 29 patients are receiving treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and the Federal Medical Centre Makurdi as health authorities continue to monitor the outbreak.
Mr Ogwuche said the government has strengthened disease surveillance, infection prevention protocols, and community awareness campaigns to limit further spread of the virus.
He explained that Lassa fever is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents, or through exposure to bodily fluids of infected individuals.
The commissioner urged residents to take preventive measures, including proper sanitation, safe food storage to avoid rodent contamination, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness, headache, sore throat, or vomiting appear.
Mr Ogwuche also commended Hyacinth Alia for supporting emergency response efforts aimed at strengthening case management, surveillance, and public awareness.
He assured residents that the state government is working closely with health partners to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread, while urging the public to remain calm and cooperate with health authorities.
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