Deadly Lassa Fever Outbreak Hits Nigeria’s Taraba State
A Lassa fever outbreak in Nigeria’s Taraba State has resulted in 15 fatalities and 49 confirmed infections, health authorities have confirmed. The incident marks the most severe outbreak the state has experienced in 14 years, according to a senior medical official.
Dr. Suleiman Kirim, Acting Head of Clinical Services at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Jalingo, provided the update. He stated that 45 patients are currently undergoing treatment across various health facilities, while 20 individuals have recovered and been discharged. The surge has placed significant strain on local health resources.
Dr. Kirim identified a critical delay in seeking professional medical care as a major factor worsening the death toll. He noted that many affected individuals first resort to traditional remedies or self-medication before presenting at hospitals, often at advanced stages of the disease. “This is the largest Lassa fever outbreak the state has witnessed in the past 14 years,” he said, expressing deep concern over the trend.
In response, the Federal Medical Centre is coordinating with the Taraba State Government and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to enhance disease surveillance and emergency response protocols. Efforts are focused on early detection, isolation of cases, and contact tracing to curb further transmission.
Lassa fever, an acute viral haemorrhagic illness endemic to West Africa, is primarily spread through contact with urine or faeces of infected rodents. Human-to-human transmission can occur in healthcare settings or through close contact with infected bodily fluids. Early symptoms include fever, headache, and sore throat, which can progress to severe complications.
Authorities have urged residents to adopt strict environmental hygiene measures, such as storing food properly and eliminating rodent infestations around homes. The public is also advised to report any symptoms resembling Lassa fever immediately to the nearest health facility without delay.
The outbreak underscores persistent challenges in managing endemic diseases in the region, including community awareness and timely healthcare access. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely as response teams work to contain the spread and reduce mortality.
