Oyo Confirms Lassa Fever Case, Activates Emergency Response

Oyo Confirms Lassa Fever Case, Activates Emergency Response

The Oyo State Government has confirmed a case of Lassa fever in Ibadan and activated an emergency response to contain the situation.

The case involved a 44-year-old woman who was treated at the University College Hospital but died on April 11, 2026. Laboratory confirmation of the infection was received two days later.

In a statement, the Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, said the state moved swiftly after confirmation by activating its Incident Management System to coordinate response efforts.

She said health authorities had begun contact tracing to identify and monitor individuals who may have been exposed, while arrangements were being made for a safe burial.

Residents were advised to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding or difficulty breathing.

“Early presentation at a health facility significantly improves the chances of survival,” she said.

The commissioner explained that Lassa fever is caused by a virus commonly transmitted through contact with food or items contaminated by rodents. She added that it can also spread from person to person through contact with bodily fluids, especially in healthcare settings without proper precautions.

She urged residents to maintain clean environments, store food properly, and take steps to prevent rodent infestation in homes.

“Good personal hygiene must be practiced at all times, including regular handwashing with soap and water,” she added.

The government has also placed health facilities across the state on alert and stepped up surveillance, while working with relevant agencies to manage the situation.

Emergency contact lines have been provided for residents to report suspected cases, as authorities intensify efforts to prevent further spread.