Seven Suspected Lassa Fever Cases Confirmed in Benue State

Asema Msuega, Physician and Benue State Epidemiologist, has raised the alarm over the outbreak of seven fresh suspected cases of Lassa in the State. The viral diseases doctor, who confirmed the outbreak in a telephone interview with BusinessDay in Makurdi, said the samples from the affected persons had been collected and sent for Laboratory test. “Health officials are maintaining heightened vigilance, with surveillance activities expanded to ensure swift identification and response to any confirmed infections”, he said. Msuega urged residents to adopt preventive habits especially safe food storage and measures to keep rodents away since rodents are the primary transmitters of the Lassa virus He emphasised the importance of maintaining sanitary environments, practicing good personal hygiene, and sustaining effective rodent‑control efforts, all of which are essential for reducing transmission risk . Read also: Tension grips Nasarawa as six suspected lassa fever patients escape isolation centre He said, “The Ministry of Health and Human Services has intensified grassroots sensitisation campaigns across the state to nib in the bud further outbreaks. “These awareness initiatives focus on environmental hygiene, community clean‑up exercises, and broad public education, particularly in areas flagged as high‑risk for Lassa fever”. Msuega reassured residents that medical centres throughout Benue were well prepared to handle suspected cases. Health personnel had received the necessary training, and emergency response units are on standby to manage any outbreak . He appealed for calm, advising against panic and affirming that the government has the capacity to manage the situation. “Citizens are encouraged to report symptoms such as fever, weakness, or unexplained bleeding to the nearest health facility, as early diagnosis greatly improves treatment outcomes and helps curb spread”, he added.