Attah Ede, Makurdi
The Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ejeh-Ogwuche, on Thursday disclosed that 13 health workers have been infected with Lassa fever, out of 46 cases confirmed from 251 suspected cases reported in the State.
Dr. Ogwuche revealed this while addressing participants at a workshop for the development of the 2026 Annual Operational Plan of the Local Action Committee on AIDS, attended by coordinators, other health workers and stakeholders from the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.
He explained that as of March 4th, 2026, the state has recorded 251 suspected cases of LASSA fever, with 46 confirmed positive cases and 11 deaths.
“Of these figures, 13 healthcare workers were involved, including five doctors, one pharmacist, four nurses, two Community Health Extension Workers, and one porter.
“Presently 29 patients are currently on admission at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and the Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi.
“Lassa fever is transmitted mainly through contact with food or items contaminated by infected rodents, as well as through contact with bodily fluids of infected persons. The symptoms include fever, weakness, headache, sore throat, vomiting, and in severe cases, bleeding.
“There is need for early presentation to health facilities, strict infection prevention and control practices, proper food storage, and environmental sanitation.
“However residents should not panic. Government is fully committed to containing the outbreak.” Ogwuche maintained.
He called on health workers to intensify community sensitization efforts and ensure that accurate information reaches the grassroots.
He expressed the confidence that through collective vigilance, strong leadership support, and coordinated action, the outbreak will be effectively brought under control.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ogwuche reaffirmed the state government’s commitment towards ending AIDS as a public health threat.
He also said that decisive measures are being taken to contain the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak in the state.
He described the LACA 2026 Annual Operational Plan as a strategic roadmap toward achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, emphasizing that the fight against HIV and AIDS must be driven strongly at the grassroots level.
He commended the Benue State Action Committee on AIDS and development partners for their sustained technical and financial support in strengthening local response mechanisms across communities.
The Health Commissioner used the occasion to deeply appreciate Governor Hyacinth Alia for his unwavering support to the health sector, particularly in the face of the current Lassa fever outbreak.
He disclosed that the Governor has provided the necessary backing and resources to ensure swift response, improved case management, and enhanced surveillance across the state.
