Lassa Fever: Edo Records 4 New Cases As Number Rises To 28

Edo State has recorded four more cases of Lassa fever, raising the total number of confirmed persons in the state to 28.

Briefing journalists in Benin City, the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Obehi Akoria, said the four new cases were confirmed in three local councils in the state, including Esan West, Etsako West, and Esan North East.

According to her: “We have continued to witness a steady rise in the number of confirmed cases of Lassa fever with four new cases recently confirmed in three local councils in the state.

“The local councils include Esan West with two new cases; Etsako West, one, and Esan North East, one.

“With the four new cases, we now have a total of 28 confirmed cases in the state, with 25 persons currently on admission. Luckily, we have not recorded any deaths from the disease.

“The 25 persons, including 20 adults and 5 paediatrics are currently receiving medical care at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital and are responding to treatment.”

Prof. Akoria listed the LGAs so far affected by Lassa fever in the state to include Etsako West (12), Esan North East (7), Esan West (5), Esan South East (2), Etsako East (1) and Owan East (1).

Reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring the health and safety of residents, the health commissioner urged residents to comply with all health protocols to contain the spread of the disease to keep themselves and their loved ones protected from the disease.

“While the government is implementing several measures to prevent the spread of the disease in the state, we urge everyone to support the government’s efforts in curbing the spread of Lassa fever by complying with guidelines to stay healthy and safe.

“Wash your hands frequently with soap and water; avoid contact with rat urine or faeces; avoid consuming contaminated food or water and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms of Lassa fever, such as fever, headache, muscle pain, and weakness,” Prof Akoria advised.