Oyo state government confirms Lassa fever case, patient dies in university college hospital, Ibadan

The Oyo State Government has confirmed a case of Lassa fever at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, the case involved a 44-year-old female who was managed at the hospital, but gave up the ghost on April 11, 2026

Penpushing reports that Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi confirmed this development in a statement, stating that the laboratory confirmation of Lassa fever was received on April 13, 2026

The commissioner said the state government, through the Ministry of Health, immediately activated its emergency response mechanisms following the confirmation of the case, adding that the Incident Management System (IMS) for Lassa Fever had been initiated to coordinate all response activities.

Penpushing further reports that she explained that key steps have been taken to identify and monitor all contacts of the deceased, and ensure that a safe and dignified burial was conducted, and urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness or extreme fatigue, sore throat, and vomiting or diarrhoea.

The commissioner pointed out that other symptoms to watch out for are unexplained bleeding (from gums, nose, urine, or injection sites), chest pain or difficulty in breathing, emphasised that early presentation at any health facility would significantly improve chances of survival.

Penpushing also reports that Ajetumobi explained that Lassa fever was a viral haemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated with the urine or faeces of infected rodents.

The Commissioner added that the disease can be spread from person to person through contact with bodily fluids of an infected individual, particularly in healthcare settings where appropriate precautions are not taken.

Penpushing reports that she advised residents to maintain a high level of environmental hygiene by keeping their homes and surroundings clean, storing food in rodent-proof containers, disposing of waste properly, and avoiding drying of food items on the ground or by the roadside.

“They should take deliberate steps to avoid contact with rodents by sealing holes and other entry points in their homes. Good personal hygiene must be practised at all times, including regular hand washing with soap and water, and the use of hand sanitisers where necessary’, she said.

“Furthermore, anyone experiencing symptoms of Lassa fever is advised to promptly report through the designated emergency lines: 08033742052 and 08025245809, while all health workers are enjoined to strictly adhere to infection prevention and control protocols at all times’.

Penpushing further reports that Ajetumobi reiterated that the Oyo state government remains committed to protecting the health and safety of all residents, noting that surveillance has been intensified across the state, and all health facilities have been placed on high alert.

“Consequently, the government is strengthening collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and effective response. Residents are hereby assured that there is no cause for panic and the situation is under control. All necessary public health measures are being effectively implemented’, she added.

Penpushing also reports that the commissioner explained that Lassa fever was preventable and treatable, especially when detected early.

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