Ibadan: The Oyo State Government has confirmed five cases of Lassa fever, with one fatality.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, disclosed this at a news conference held in Ibadan on Friday.
Ajetunmobi, however, assured residents that the government would implement swift response measures to contain the spread and protect public health.
The commissioner said that the confirmed cases are currently being managed at the state Infectious Disease Centre (IDC) in Olodo and at the University College Hospital (UCH).
She said specialised clinical care and containment protocols are implemented at the isolation units. The state government has promptly activated its emergency response framework.
She said the government initiated a coordinated, multi-sectoral intervention in accordance with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) national guidelines and the World Health Organisation (WHO) global best practices.
She appreciated Gov. Seyi Makinde for his decisive leadership and unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of residents.
According to the commissioner, the governor’s timely approval and release of emergency funds facilitated the rapid operationalisation of the response structure.
Ajetunmobi listed the key steps already taken, such as starting the Incident Management System and the Emergency Operations Centre.
In addition, she mentioned the establishment of a multi-sectoral response team, comprising the health, environment, agriculture, and information sectors.
She noted that a comprehensive Incident Action Plan has been developed. It is being implemented alongside intensified surveillance. This includes active case search and monitoring of over 200 identified contacts.
Other measures include deploying SORMAS for real-time data management. Isolation centres are operational, and Ribavirin and other essential commodities are prepositioned.
Infection Prevention and Control measures have been strengthened. There is a provision for the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment.
Safe burial protocols are in place and involve environmental health authorities.
She added that environmental sanitation, fumigation, and decontamination of affected areas are ongoing, while continuous capacity building and sensitisation of healthcare workers are ongoing.
Public risk communication through mass media and information materials is also sustained. Community engagement efforts continue as well.
She also said lab work is closely coordinated with the UCH Virology Laboratory to help with quick testing and response.
Ajetunmobi acknowledged strong collaboration, especially UCH’s role in case management and diagnosis.
She also thanked the state Environment, Agriculture, and Information Ministries, as well as other groups, for their support and assistance.
She also thanked the NCDC for its support and help with coordination.
She advised the public to strictly adhere to the following preventive measures: properly storing food in sealed, rodent-proof containers; maintaining environmental sanitation to eliminate rodent habitats; and avoiding contact with rodents.
Other preventive measures she mentioned include implementing control measures in homes and farms, regularly washing hands with soap and water, and avoiding contact with the bodily fluids of suspected or confirmed cases.
She urged the public to seek prompt medical attention for symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or bleeding, and report suspected cases immediately to the nearest health facility.
“Strict compliance with IPC protocols by healthcare workers is vital.” Stay calm, alert, and strictly follow all public health instructions. Cooperate fully with the authorities. Watch for further updates as we manage this outbreak together.on evolves.
Mr Ademola Aderinto, Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, said the ministry is taking early steps to stop Lassa fever from spreading in the state.
He said health officers are talking to people to teach them how to prevent the disease.
He added that the ministry is engaging food vendors to prevent the sale of contaminated food to the public, while emphasising the importance of maintaining clean, safe environments.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said the government prioritises security and health.
He called on residents to strictly adhere to the preventive measures issued by the Ministry of Health.
UCH Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof. Jesse Otegbayo, appreciated the Oyo State Government for its swift response.
Otegbayo, represented by Prof. Bukola Adesina, described the support as robust and comprehensive. He said it was reassuring.
He noted that the state government’s resources greatly assisted in managing the situation effectively.
