Lassa Fever Outbreak: 4 Health Workers Infected in Benue

The Benue State Government has confirmed that four healthcare workers are among the latest victims of the ongoing Lassa Fever outbreak in the state. The State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, disclosed that the affected health workers are three nurses and one community health worker.

The commissioner made the announcement on Tuesday while declaring a Lassa Fever outbreak, following a surge in suspected and confirmed cases, as well as reported deaths in different parts of Benue. According to data released by the Ministry of Health, 56 suspected cases have been recorded so far, with eight cases laboratory confirmed and three deaths.

Dr. Ogwuche expressed concern over the infection of frontline health personnel, noting that their exposure pointed to ongoing risks and gaps in infection control practices within health facilities. He emphasized the importance of strict compliance with Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) protocols across all health facilities.

The commissioner urged residents to remain calm but alert, as Lassa Fever is mainly transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their urine and droppings, and can also spread from person to person, especially in healthcare settings with poor infection control. Symptoms include persistent high fever, headache, muscle pain, and sore throat, among others.

The Ministry of Health has activated the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) to oversee surveillance, case management, contact tracing, and public awareness campaigns across the 23 local government areas. Residents are advised to maintain proper environmental sanitation, store food safely, and seek prompt medical care when symptoms appear.