The Benue State Government has confirmed that four healthcare workers are among the latest victims of the ongoing Lassa Fever outbreak in the state.

Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, disclosed that the affected personnel include three nurses and one community health worker who were actively serving in the state at the time of infection.

The commissioner made the announcement on Tuesday while formally declaring a Lassa Fever outbreak, following a surge in suspected and confirmed cases, as well as reported deaths across various parts of Benue.

Data from the Ministry of Health indicate that 56 suspected cases have been recorded so far, with eight cases confirmed through laboratory testing. Three deaths have occurred among confirmed cases, while one additional probable death is under investigation.

Describing the figures as concerning, Dr. Ogwuche emphasized that the fatality rate highlighted the seriousness of the outbreak and the urgent need for public health intervention.

“These numbers are troubling and demand immediate action to prevent further spread of the disease and reduce fatalities,” he said.

He expressed particular concern about the infection of frontline health personnel, noting that it underscored ongoing risks and gaps in infection control within healthcare facilities.

“I am especially concerned that four of our healthcare workers—three nurses and a community health worker—are among those infected. This highlights the risks our health professionals face in the line of duty,” Dr. Ogwuche stated.

The commissioner also mourned the recent death of a medical doctor of Benue origin who succumbed to Lassa Fever while on duty in Jos, Plateau State, describing it as “a painful reminder of the sacrifices and risks associated with healthcare service.”

Dr. Ogwuche stressed the importance of strict compliance with Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) protocols in all health facilities, noting that protecting healthcare workers is vital to maintaining an effective response to the outbreak.

He added that the state’s response aligns with Governor Hyacinth Alia’s commitment to safeguarding residents. The Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) has been activated to oversee surveillance, case management, contact tracing, and public awareness campaigns across all 23 local government areas.

Residents were advised to remain calm but vigilant. The commissioner explained that Lassa Fever is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their urine and droppings and can also spread from person to person, particularly in healthcare settings with inadequate infection control.

Symptoms of the disease include persistent high fever, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, unexplained bleeding.

The Ministry of Health urged the public to maintain proper environmental sanitation, store food safely to deter rodents, avoid self-medication, and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms appear, emphasizing that early treatment greatly improves chances of survival.

Members of the public are also encouraged to report suspected cases through the Benue State Lassa Fever emergency hotline at 0803-929-4999 or to the nearest Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer.