Edo Declares Lassa Fever Outbreak as Six Die, 28 Cases Confirmed
The Edo State Government has officially declared a Lassa fever outbreak following the confirmation of 28 laboratory-positive cases and six deaths linked to the viral hemorrhagic disease. Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, announced the development during a press briefing in Benin City on Friday. He highlighted a noticeable surge in infections, particularly in Etsako West and Esan West Local Government Areas, indicating sustained community transmission that demands urgent and coordinated action. “As of today, Edo State has recorded 28 laboratory-confirmed cases of Lassa Fever with six reported deaths,” Dr. Oshiomhole stated. “The recent increase in cases signals sustained community transmission that requires immediate, escalated response.” Lassa fever, a viral illness endemic in parts of West Africa including Nigeria, is primarily transmitted through contact with urine or droppings of infected multimammate rats, or through person-to-person spread via bodily f...