Benue Records 156 Suspected Lassa Fever Cases, 6 Deaths

Benue State has recorded 156 suspected cases of Lassa Fever, with 15 confirmed cases and six deaths from those confirmed cases. Additionally, there have been nine probable deaths linked to the disease in the past six months, according to Dr. Msuega Asema, the State Epidemiologist.

The seven Local Government Areas affected by the suspected cases are Ukum, Makurdi, Guma, Okpokwu, Vandeikya, Gwer-West, and Otukpo. Dr. Asema emphasized the need for prevention, early detection, and treatment, highlighting measures like covering food and washing hands to prevent infections.

Meanwhile the World Health Organization (WHO) has advocated for a shift from reactive to proactive measures in tackling Lassa Fever in Benue.

Dr. Mohammed Abdulkarim, WHO State Coordinator, stressed the need for attitudinal change in health practices to prevent infections.