The Oyo State Government has confirmed five cases of Lassa fever, including one fatality, prompting the activation of emergency response measures to contain the outbreak and protect public health.
Speaking at a press briefing, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, disclosed that the confirmed cases are currently receiving treatment in designated facilities, including the State Infectious Disease Centre (IDC), Olodo, and the University College Hospital (UCH) isolation unit, where strict containment and clinical protocols are in place.
She explained that the state government swiftly activated its emergency response framework, implementing a coordinated multi-sectoral approach in line with guidelines from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
The commissioner commended Governor Seyi Makinde for approving emergency funds that enabled the rapid deployment of response measures. Key interventions include the activation of the Incident Management System (IMS) and Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), alongside the establishment of a multi-sectoral response team involving the health, environment, agriculture, and information sectors.
Ajetunmobi noted that authorities have intensified surveillance, conducted active case searches, and are currently monitoring over 200 identified contacts. The state has also deployed the Surveillance Outbreak Response Management and Analysis System (SORMAS) for real-time tracking of cases.
Other measures include the provision of Ribavirin and essential medical supplies, strengthening infection prevention and control protocols, and ensuring the proper use of personal protective equipment by healthcare workers.
She added that environmental sanitation, fumigation, and decontamination of affected areas are ongoing, while safe burial practices are being strictly enforced. Public awareness campaigns through media and community engagement are also being intensified.
The government urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, maintain proper hygiene, and report any suspected symptoms promptly as efforts continue to contain the outbreak.
