Lassa Fever Outbreak In Ogun State: What You Need To Know

Health Commissioner Sounds Alarm: Lassa Fever Strikes Ogun State

Ogun State's health sector is currently on high alert following the confirmation of a Lassa Fever outbreak. Dr. Tomi Coker, the state's Commissioner for Health, recently made the announcement, revealing a tragic casualty linked to the disease. The news came as a shock to many, underscoring the urgent need for public awareness and swift action to control the spread of this potentially deadly virus.

In a recent statement, Dr. Coker explained that the outbreak originated from a case involving a 25-year-old female National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member. This young woman fell ill while in Ondo State and was subsequently transported to a secondary health facility in Ijebu North Local Government Area. Unfortunately, her condition deteriorated rapidly, and she passed away the same day she was admitted.

Understanding the Symptoms: Key Signs of Lassa Fever

Dr. Coker provided a detailed breakdown of the symptoms associated with Lassa Fever during her address to journalists in Abeokuta. The disease, she explained, is characterized by a range of alarming symptoms, including high-grade fever, persistent headaches, generalized body weakness, sore throat, muscle pain, coughing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, and unexplained bleeding from the ears, eyes, nose, mouth, and other bodily openings. These symptoms can manifest in various combinations and severities, making early detection critical.

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The commissioner emphasized the importance of vigilance, urging residents to seek immediate medical attention if they or anyone they know exhibits these signs. Early intervention not only improves the chances of survival but also helps contain the spread of the virus.

Official Statement: Lassa Fever Declared an Outbreak

Dr. Coker issued a formal statement confirming the outbreak and outlining the state's response strategy. She stated, “Ogun State has confirmed a case of Lassa Fever, and as such, we have declared it an outbreak. The index case is a 25-year-old female NYSC member who fell sick while in Ondo State. She was brought to one of our secondary health facilities in Ijebu North Local Government Area on March 18, 2025, and unfortunately passed away the same day.”

She further explained that Lassa Fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease that presents with a variety of symptoms, including high-grade fever, headaches, body weakness, sore throat, muscle pain, coughing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, and unexplained bleeding. “We implore members of the community to promptly report to the hospital if they notice any of these symptoms,” she urged. “Any case of febrile illness that hasn’t responded to 48 hours of anti-malaria or antibiotic treatment should raise suspicion for Lassa Fever.”

Call to Action: Steps for Public and Healthcare Providers

The commissioner extended her appeal to both the public and healthcare providers, emphasizing the need for collective action. “We implore all health facilities in Ogun State, whether public or private, to step up their infection prevention and control measures. Compliance by all healthcare staff is essential to ensure the safety of patients and workers alike.”

Healthcare workers who suspect Lassa Fever in a patient are advised to contact their Local Government Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (LGA DSNO), whose contact numbers are prominently displayed in healthcare facilities. Alternatively, they can reach out to the State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer at 0703-421-4893 or the State Epidemiologist at 0808-425-0881 for immediate assistance.

Government's Commitment to Public Health

Dr. Coker concluded her statement by reaffirming the Ogun State Government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the health of its citizens. “The government remains dedicated to protecting the health of its people through continuous surveillance and prompt response to infectious diseases,” she stated. “We are working tirelessly to ensure that this outbreak is contained as quickly as possible.”

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The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Rapid Response Team at Ijebu North East, is actively monitoring the situation. Enhanced surveillance, community engagement, and mobilization efforts are underway to ensure an effective and coordinated response. The goal is to minimize the impact of the outbreak and restore public confidence in the state’s healthcare system.