13 Dies in Edo from Lassa Fever
Tracy Ohovwore, Benin City
The Edo state government has recorded an outbreak of Lassa fever, which has killed 13 persons across Etsako West, Esan West, and Esan North central local government area of the state.
The Director of the Ministry of Health, Dr Stephenson Ojeibo, revealed that the state has recorded 33 positive cases and 13 deaths from the outbreak.
“Since the outbreak of the disease on December 30 last year in the state, we have over 378 suspected cases of Lassa fever.
“But as of today, of that number, 83 were confirmed positive for the disease with 13 mortality. Seven are still receiving treatment while others have been discharged.” He said.
Dr Ojeibo attributed the mortality to the delayed presentation of patients to the hospitals for examinations and treatments.
He urged residents of Edo State to regularly go for checkups and report suspected cases so that treatments can be administered immediately.
In an effort to address the recent developments, Dr Ojeibo disclosed that liaisons with private hospitals in the state are being made to ensure prompt referral to Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), which is designated for the treatment of the disease.
