15 dead, 49 infected in Taraba Lassa fever outbreak

By

Olufemi Omotosho

At least 15 people have died, while 49 others have been infected in a Lassa fever outbreak affecting multiple local government areas of Taraba State.

The Acting Head of Clinical Services at the Federal Medical Centre Jalingo (FMC), Dr. Suleiman Kirim, confirmed the figures in an interview with journalists, expressing concern over patients’ late presentation to hospitals—a factor he said has significantly contributed to the rising fatality rate.

Currently, 45 patients are receiving treatment across various health facilities in the state, while 20 others have recovered and been discharged. Dr. Kirim described the outbreak as the most widespread Lassa fever incidence recorded in Taraba in the past 14 years.

“The late arrival of patients reduces their chances of survival. Early detection and prompt treatment remain key to managing Lassa fever effectively,” he said, noting that many residents initially resort to self-medication or traditional remedies before seeking medical help.

The outbreak has placed significant pressure on health facilities, particularly FMC Jalingo, as medical personnel intensify efforts to contain the spread of the viral haemorrhagic disease. Dr. Kirim also highlighted that misconceptions and misinformation continue to hamper response efforts, with some community members sceptical of medical interventions and reluctant to follow preventive guidelines.

FMC is collaborating with the Taraba State Government and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to strengthen surveillance, improve logistics and enhance data management for effective outbreak response.

Professor Joshua Difa, of FMC Jalingo’s Department of Public Health, stressed the importance of sustained public awareness and community engagement. He reminded residents that Lassa fever, primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or faeces, can spread rapidly without strict preventive measures.

Professor Difa urged residents to maintain proper environmental sanitation, store food in rodent-proof containers, and avoid contact with rodents and their secretions. Health workers were advised to observe strict infection prevention and control protocols.

Similarly, Dr. Philip Aboki, Head of Pediatrics at FMC Jalingo, called on parents to remain vigilant, noting that children are also at risk.

He encouraged families to promptly report symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness, sore throat, vomiting, and unexplained bleeding to the nearest health facility.

State health authorities have intensified sensitisation campaigns in affected communities, deploying rapid response teams and increasing surveillance to detect and isolate new cases as part of efforts to contain the outbreak.