Edo Govt explains Lassa Fever Response
By Osehobo Ofure, Benin City
The Director, Public Health, Edo State Ministry of Health, Dr Stephenson Ojiefoh, has said that the government is working hard to curb the spread of Lassa fever, while also focusing on eliminating its carrier, the rat.
Dr Ojeifo, addressing a news conference in his office, highlighted the state government’s strong support for the ministry, including the timely release of funds to combat the menace, assuring that the state government remained committed to tackling health challenges faced by its people.
Dr Ojiefoh explained that suspected Lassa fever cases were promptly tested, with samples sent to Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital in Edo Central and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital in Edo South for confirmation, reassuring the public that the State had intensified its efforts in managing the situation.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of prolonged fever, as testing and treatment for Lassa fever is free.
He identified Etsako West, Esan North-East, and Esan West as the most affected local government areas, noting that surveillance teams were actively working to prevent further spread.
Dr Ojeifo warned that private hospitals or clinics managing Lassa Fever cases instead of referring them to the accredited facilities in Irrua would face consequences, while advising journalists to verify health-related information before publication.
Regarding Mpox cases in the state, he confirmed that eleven suspected cases had been recorded, with five testing positive.
“All positive cases received treatment and have been reunited with their families, ” he said.
