From Joseph Uchenna in Makurdi
Benue State has recorded 251 suspected cases of Lassa fever, with 46 confirmed positive cases and 11 deaths as at March 4th, 2026.
The State Commissioner for Health Dr Paul Ogwuche gave the update on Thursday while speaking at the workshop for the development of the 2026 Annual Operational Plan, (AOP) of the Local Action Committee on AIDS, attended by coordinators and stakeholders from the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.
Dr Ogwuche disclosed that 13 healthcare workers have been infected, including five doctors, one pharmacist, four nurses, two Community Health Extension Workers, and one porter.
He added that twenty-nine patients are currently on admission at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, BSUTH and the Federal Medical Centre, FMC Makurdi.
The Commissioner explained that 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.
He identified symptoms to include fever, weakness, headache, sore throat, vomiting, and in severe cases, bleeding.
The Health Commissioner harped on the importance of early presentation to health facilities, strict infection prevention and control practices, proper food storage, and environmental sanitation.
While urging residents not to panic, Ogwuche assured the public that government is fully committed to containing the outbreak.
He called on health workers to intensify community sensitization efforts and ensure that accurate information reaches the grassroots.
He expressed confidence that through collective vigilance, strong leadership support, and coordinated action, the outbreak will be effectively brought under control.
While reaffirming the state government’s commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat, 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.
Dr Ogwuche 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 deeply appreciated the Executive Governor of Benue State Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia for his unwavering support to the health sector, particularly in the face of the current Lassa fever outbreak, noting that the Governor has provided the necessary backing and resources to ensure swift response, improved case management, and enhanced surveillance across the state.
