The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, has revealed that six persons have died from Lassa fever in the state.

Addressing journalists in Benin on Friday, Oshiomhole also revealed that the state has recorded 28 confirmed cases of the fever.

He said that the recent increase in cases, particularly from the Estako West and Esan West Local Government Areas, signals sustained community transmission that requires immediate, coordinated, and escalated response.

He said that the state government has been proactive, knowing that the Lassa fever outbreak has become periodic by donating lassa pack to Irrue Specialist Teaching Hospital.

He noted, “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 activation of All Pillars of the Edo State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre with immediate effect.

He said the response would be fully coordinated under the leadership of the Director of Public Health, Ministry of Health, who would provide daily situation reports directly to the Commissioner for Health.

He assured the people that the state government is proactive, vigilant and ready to protect the people.

Lassa Fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness common in West Africa, caused by the Lassa virus and primarily transmitted through contact with the excreta of infected Mastomys rats.

Symptoms can vary from mild fever and general malaise to severe, life-threatening conditions, including bleeding and shock.

Early treatment with the antiviral drug ribavirin is critical, as the disease has an overall fatality rate of about 1%, rising to 15–20% among hospitalised patients. (The PUNCH)

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