Benue records 63 Lassa Fever cases, 11 fatalities

Benue State is reported to have recorded about 63 cases of Lassa Fever and 11 fatalities in 2024. 

The State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Yanmar Ortese, who made this known while declaring open a Lassa Fever Case Management workshop in Makurdi, said the figure represented an overall Case Fatality Rate, CFR, of 17 percent since the beginning of the year. 

Represented by the Director, Medical Services in the Ministry, Dr. Joshua Agbadu, the Commissioner noted that the disease had continued to pose significant public health challenges in our state. 

He said: "Over the past few years, Benue State has been at the forefront of battling recurrent outbreaks of Lassa Fever. According to our most recent data, in 2024 alone, we have recorded 63 confirmed cases, with 11 fatalities and an overall case fatality Rate, CFR, of 17 percentage. 

"Alarmingly, eight healthcare workers have been affected this year, underscoring the risks faced by our frontline heroes who are dedicated to saving lives. 

"While we have seen progress compared to previous years, these numbers remind us that there is still much work to be done."  

This workshop, organized with the support of the World Health Organization, WHO, and other key stakeholders, is designed to build capacity and enhance the competencies of our healthcare workforce. 

"The importance of this training cannot be overstated. Lassa Fever, though

preventable and treatable if identified early, continues to challenge our healthcare system. 

"This is why we are committed to ensuring that healthcare professionals across various facilities - including our designated treatment centre at Benue State University Teaching Hospital, referral hospitals like the Federal Medical Center and partner facilities such as 161 Air Force Hospital - are fully equipped with the latest knowledge and best practices to handle Lassa Fever cases effectively. 

"I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the immense efforts of all our healthcare workers, especially those on the frontlines. Your dedication and resilience have been invaluable in our ongoing efforts to manage Lassa Fever and other infectious diseases. It is through your commitment that we can protect our communities and save lives." 

The WHO Coordinator, Benue State Field Office, Dr. Mohammed Abdulkarim who harped on the importance of the workshop to the fight to tackle the disease in the state noted that "Lassa fever remains a significant public health challenge in Benue state, and it is through initiatives like this workshop that we can strengthen our collective response. 

"Your commitment to enhancing your skills and knowledge in managing this disease is commendable and crucial for the health and well-being of our communities. 

"This workshop represents a vital opportunity for us to share best practices, learn from each other, and build a robust network of healthcare professionals equipped to tackle Lassa fever effectively. 

"The knowledge and skills you gain here will not only benefit your professional growth but also contribute significantly to our ongoing efforts to control and eventually eliminate Lassa fever. 

"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Benue State Ministry of Health for their collaboration, to NCDC for their coordination role in infectious disease prevention and control and to all the facilitators and participants for their dedication. Together, we can make a difference and move closer to a Lassa fever-free future." 

The workshop was organised by Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services, in collaboration with the Nigerian Center for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC and the WHO.