Health authorities in Edo State have confirmed 30 cases of Lassa fever with six deaths recorded across multiple local government areas, raising renewed concern over the seasonal outbreak.
The Director of Public Health at the Edo State Ministry of Health, Ojeifo Stephenson, disclosed the figures while briefing journalists in Benin City over the weekend.
According to him, the fatalities were largely linked to late presentation of patients for medical treatment, stressing that early detection remains critical to survival.
Stephenson explained that the majority of confirmed cases were recorded in Etsako West and Esan West local government areas, with additional cases reported in other parts of the state.
He provided a breakdown showing about 20 cases in Etsako West, four in Esan West, two in Akoko-Edo, two in Egor, and one case each in Ovia North-East and Owan West, bringing the total number of confirmed infections to 30.
In terms of fatalities, he said two deaths were recorded in Etsako West, one in Esan West, two in Akoko-Edo, and one in Egor Local Government Area.
Stephenson noted that Lassa fever outbreaks are not new in Edo, describing the state as one of the endemic regions where cases are recorded annually. He added that proactive measures had already been taken before the peak period, including the provision of medical supplies to treatment centres to strengthen response capacity.
He highlighted the role of Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital as a major treatment centre for Lassa fever in the country, alongside diagnostic support from University of Benin Teaching Hospital.
The public health director urged residents to avoid self-medication, particularly in cases of persistent fever, and to promptly seek professional medical care.
He emphasised that early hospital presentation remains one of the most effective ways to reduce fatalities and control the spread of the disease.
