Lassa Fever: Benue Places 50 Contacts Under Surveillance After Woman’s Death!

Lassa Fever: Benue Places 50 Contacts Under Surveillance After Woman’s Death!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

Benue State authorities have placed 50 individuals under medical surveillance following the death of a 54-year-old woman from Lassa fever. The confirmation was made by the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, on Thursday.

What We Know:

• The deceased, a resident of Makurdi, presented symptoms consistent with Lassa fever and died shortly after being admitted.
• Contact tracing has identified 50 people—family members, health workers, and community contacts—now being closely monitored.
• The state has activated its Emergency Operations Centre to coordinate response efforts.

Quote:

“We are taking all necessary precautions to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission.”
— Dr. Paul Ogwuche

Why It Matters:

• Highlights ongoing public health risks in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region.
• Stresses the need for rapid surveillance, early detection, and public awareness.
• Reinforces calls for improved hygiene and rodent control in vulnerable communities.

What to Watch:

• Test results of the contacts under surveillance.
• Possible escalation of cases if transmission chains are not halted.
• Deployment of Federal Ministry of Health or NCDC support teams to Benue.

Sources:

1. Benue State Ministry of Health Press Briefing – Oct. 30, 2025
2. Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) Situation Report
3. Local HealthWatch Benue – Community Surveillance Update

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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