The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, has disclosed that six people have succumbed to Lassa fever in the state.
Speaking with journalists in Benin on Friday, the 13th of February, 2026, he further revealed that Edo State has recorded 28 confirmed cases of the viral illness.
Oshiomhole highlighted that the recent rise in infections, particularly in Estako West and Esan West Local Government Areas, indicates sustained community transmission that demands an immediate, coordinated, and escalated response.
He emphasized that the state government has acted proactively, recognizing the periodic nature of Lassa fever outbreaks, by donating Lassa packs to Irrue Specialist Teaching Hospital.
Addressing the public, he said, “Distinguished colleagues, partners in health, members of the press, and the good people of Edo State, today, Friday 13th February 2026, I address you with a deep sense of responsibility regarding the public health situation in our dear State.
“Following a careful epidemiological review and risk assessment by the Edo State Ministry of Health, I hereby formally declare a Lassa Fever Outbreak in Edo State. As of today, Edo State has recorded 28 laboratory-confirmed cases of Lassa fever with 6 reported deaths.
“The recent increase in cases, particularly from Estako West and Esan West Local Government Areas, signals sustained community transmission that requires immediate, coordinated, and escalated response. The Edo state government has been proactive, knowing that the Lassa fever outbreak has become periodic, by donating Lassa packs to ISTH.”
In line with national and international public health protocols, Oshiomhole announced the immediate activation of all pillars of the Edo State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre.
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He explained that the response will be fully coordinated under the leadership of the Director of Public Health, Ministry of Health, who will provide daily situation reports directly to the Commissioner for Health.
Oshiomhole reassured Edo residents that the state government remains vigilant, proactive, and fully committed to protecting the population.
Lassa Fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness prevalent in West Africa, caused by the Lassa virus and primarily transmitted through contact with the excreta of infected Mastomys rats.
Symptoms range from mild fever and general malaise to severe, life-threatening conditions, including bleeding and shock. Early treatment with the antiviral drug ribavirin is essential, as the disease has an overall fatality rate of about 1%, rising to 15–20% among hospitalised patients.