Edo State has confirmed six deaths from Lassa Fever, with a total of 28 laboratory-confirmed cases, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, announced on Friday.
Speaking at a press conference in Benin City, Dr. Oshiomhole said the recent rise in cases, particularly from Etsako West and Esan West Local Government Areas, indicates sustained community transmission and calls for urgent intervention.
“Following a careful epidemiological review and risk assessment by the Edo State Ministry of Health, I formally declare a Lassa Fever outbreak in Edo State,” he said. “The recent increase in cases signals sustained community transmission that requires an immediate, coordinated, and escalated response.”
The commissioner added that the state government had anticipated the cyclical nature of Lassa Fever outbreaks and had proactively provided Lassa packs to Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital to support treatment and containment efforts.
