A wave of concern has swept across Edo State as the government confirms a grim toll from the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak.
The state has now recorded 15 fatalities since the resurgence of the disease, a figure that has sparked fresh debates on public health response efforts.
Dr. Stephenson Ojeifo, Director of Public Health at the Edo State Ministry of Health, disclosed this during a briefing in Benin City.
His statement came in response to growing speculation on social media, where critics have accused Governor Monday Okpebholo of not doing enough to curb the outbreak.
Revisiting earlier figures, Ojeifo reminded the public that as of February 2025, the state had reported 13 deaths. However, the numbers have since climbed.
“As of today, Edo State has recorded over 1,000 cases of Lassa fever. Out of these, 103 tested positive. From the 103 positive cases, we have recorded 15 deaths, while others have been treated and discharged,” he revealed.
Adding to the state’s health concerns, Ojeifo confirmed that Edo has also recorded 11 suspected cases of Mpox, with five testing positive. However, he reassured the public that there have been no fatalities from the viral disease, attributing this to early medical intervention.
Amid concerns over the Lassa fever crisis, Ojeifo commended Governor Okpebholo for strengthening surveillance systems, enhancing contact tracing, and implementing proactive measures to contain the spread. However, he lamented that late referrals and delays in seeking medical attention remain a major challenge.
He pointed out that many patients only arrive at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH) when their conditions have deteriorated significantly, reducing their chances of survival.
In response, the government has intensified public awareness campaigns, urging residents to seek medical attention promptly if they experience persistent fever.
Ojeifo also issued a stern warning to clinicians, urging them to refer suspected cases swiftly to designated treatment centres. He emphasized that any hospital found managing Lassa fever cases unlawfully would face strict consequences, as ISTH remains the only authorized facility for treating the disease.
With rising cases and heightened anxieties, Edo State continues its battle against Lassa fever, racing against time to curb further fatalities.