At least seven fresh suspected cases of Lassa fever have been recorded in Benue State, raising public concern over the possibility of a wider outbreak of the viral disease.
The State Epidemiologist, Dr. Asema Msuega, confirmed the development during a briefing with journalists in Makurdi, disclosing that samples from the affected individuals have already been collected and sent for laboratory analysis.
Dr. Msuega said health authorities have intensified surveillance efforts across the state to ensure early detection and rapid response should any of the cases be confirmed.
He urged residents to adopt strict preventive measures, particularly proper food storage and actions aimed at keeping rodents away from homes, noting that rats remain the primary carriers of the Lassa fever virus.
The epidemiologist also stressed the importance of maintaining clean environments, observing good personal hygiene, and sustaining effective rodent control, describing these measures as critical to reducing the risk of transmission.
According to him, the Ministry of Health and Human Services has stepped up grassroots sensitisation campaigns across Benue, with ongoing awareness programmes focusing on environmental sanitation, community clean-up exercises and public education, especially in areas identified as high-risk.
Dr. Msuega reassured residents that health facilities across the state are adequately prepared to manage suspected cases, adding that medical personnel have received the necessary training and emergency response teams are on standby.
He appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid panic, assuring that the government has the capacity to contain the situation.
Residents were also advised to promptly report symptoms such as persistent fever, general weakness or unexplained bleeding to the nearest health facility, as early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes and helps prevent further spread of the disease.
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