At least 15 people have lost their lives, and 49 others have been infected amid a Lassa fever outbreak spreading across several local government areas in Taraba State.
The Acting Head of Clinical Services at the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, Dr. Suleiman Kirim, confirmed the figures in an interview with journalists, expressing concern over the late presentation of patients to hospitals, a factor he says has significantly contributed to the high fatality rate.
Currently, 45 patients are undergoing treatment at different health facilities across the state, while 20 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, highlighting that many residents first resort to self-medication or traditional remedies before seeking professional medical care.
The outbreak has put considerable pressure on health facilities, particularly FMC Jalingo, as medical staff work tirelessly to contain the spread of the viral haemorrhagic disease.
Dr. Kirim also pointed out that misconceptions and misinformation are hindering response efforts, with some community members sceptical of medical interventions and hesitant to adhere to preventive measures.
FMC Jalingo is collaborating with the Taraba State Government and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control to strengthen surveillance, improve logistics, and enhance data management for a more effective response to the outbreak.
Professor Joshua Difa, from FMC Jalingo’s Department of Public Health, emphasised the need for ongoing public awareness and community engagement.
He reminded residents that Lassa fever, which is primarily spread through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or faeces, can escalate rapidly if preventive measures are neglected.
Professor Difa urged the public to maintain proper environmental hygiene, store food in rodent-proof containers, and avoid contact with rodents and their secretions.
He also called on health workers to observe strict infection prevention and control protocols.
Similarly, Dr. Philip Aboki, Head of Pediatrics at FMC Jalingo, advised parents to stay vigilant, stressing that children are equally 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 awareness campaigns in affected areas, deploying rapid response teams and ramping up surveillance to identify and isolate new cases as part of ongoing efforts to control the outbreak.
