Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
The Ogun State Government has confirmed a new case of Lassa fever following the death of a 25-year-old female National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Ijebu North Local Government Area.
The state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abeokuta. She revealed that the deceased corps member fell ill while in Ondo State and was brought to a health facility in Ijebu North on March 18, 2025, where she died the same day.
Dr. Coker urged the public to remain vigilant and report any cases of persistent fever that do not respond to malaria treatment or antibiotics within 48 hours. She listed symptoms of Lassa fever to include high-grade fever, headache, general body weakness, sore throat, muscle pain, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, and unexplained bleeding from the ears, nose, mouth, or other body openings.
She also directed both public and private health facilities in Ogun State to strengthen infection prevention and control measures. Health workers were advised to notify the local government disease surveillance and notification officers (LGA DSNO) if they suspect any Lassa fever cases.
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“Ogun State has recorded a confirmed case of Lassa fever, officially declaring an outbreak. The index case, a 25-year-old female corps member, fell sick in Ondo State and was brought to one of our secondary health facilities in Ijebu North LGA on March 18, 2025, where she later passed away,” Coker said.
She emphasized the importance of early detection and urged the public to seek immediate medical attention if they notice symptoms.
“We implore all health facilities in Ogun State, both public and private, to implement strict infection control measures. Health staff who suspect a case of Lassa fever should immediately contact their local government disease surveillance and notification officers,” she added.
The Ogun State Government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents while intensifying efforts to curb the spread of the disease.