Benue doctor dies from Lassa fever, state records new outbreak

The State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ejeh-Ogwuche, confirmed the death on Monday in Makurdi, stating that contact tracing and surveillance measures have been activated. The deceased reportedly battled the illness for over two weeks. Dr. Ogwuche noted that the death occurred as the state was preparing to be declared free of Lassa fever.

The doctor, who hailed from Kwande Local Government Area, initially declined hospital admission, requesting home management, but was later referred to the University of Jos Teaching Hospital in Plateau State due to kidney complications, where he subsequently died. His remains were buried according to Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention protocols. Following this new outbreak, the ministry has intensified public awareness campaigns and reactivated response measures.

Health authorities are also on alert for other infectious disease threats like Ebola, with strengthened surveillance across health facilities. The state had nearly completed a 42-day incubation monitoring period for Lassa fever before this new case emerged, necessitating a fresh observation cycle.