Benue records new Lassa fever deaths

The Benue State Government has confirmed additional deaths linked to the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak, as health authorities intensify efforts to contain the disease across the state. Daily Trust reports that the state government last week confirmed the death of 10 health workers following the outbreak, with 45 cases testing positive out of 250 suspected […]

The Benue State Government has confirmed additional deaths linked to the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak, as health authorities intensify efforts to contain the disease across the state.

Daily Trust reports that the state government last week confirmed the death of 10 health workers following the outbreak, with 45 cases testing positive out of 250 suspected infections recorded across the state.

However, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Paul Ogwuche, provided an updated figure on Thursday while speaking at a workshop on the 2026 Annual Operational Plan of the Benue State Action Committee on AIDS in Makurdi.

Ogwuche disclosed that the state had recorded 251 suspected cases of Lassa fever as monitoring of the outbreak continues.

He said that as of March 4, 2026, 46 cases had been confirmed, with 11 deaths recorded.

According to the commissioner, 13 healthcare workers have also contracted the virus. The affected workers include five doctors, one pharmacist, four nurses, two Community Health Extension Workers and one hospital porter.

He added that 29 patients are currently receiving treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and the Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi.

Ogwuche said health officials have strengthened surveillance, infection prevention and control measures, as well as community sensitisation, in response to recent developments in the outbreak.

He explained that Lassa fever is mainly transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents, or through exposure to the bodily fluids of infected persons.

The commissioner urged residents to avoid storing food in ways that attract rodents, maintain proper sanitation, and seek early medical attention if they experience symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness, headache, sore throat or vomiting.

Ogwuche also commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for supporting emergency response measures aimed at improving case management, surveillance and public awareness campaigns.

He assured residents that health authorities are working with partners to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread across communities, while urging the public to remain calm.