The Oyo State Government has confirmed a case of Lassa Fever at the University College Hospital Ibadan (UCH), following the death of a 44-year-old female patient who was later confirmed positive for the virus.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the state government said laboratory confirmation of the infection was received on April 13, 2026, two days after the patient passed away on April 11, 2026.
The government said it immediately activated its emergency response system through the Incident Management System (IMS) to coordinate containment efforts and prevent further spread of the disease.
According to the statement, health authorities have begun identifying and monitoring all contacts linked to the deceased, while arrangements are being made for a safe and dignified burial in line with public health protocols.
The Commissioner urged residents to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, or unexplained bleeding, stressing that early treatment significantly improves survival chances.
Lassa Fever is a viral haemorrhagic disease caused by the Lassa virus, primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents, particularly their urine or faeces.
The disease can also spread from person to person through contact with infected bodily fluids, especially in healthcare settings where infection prevention measures are not properly observed.
Ajetunmobi advised residents to maintain strict environmental hygiene, including proper waste disposal, safe food storage in rodent-proof containers, and avoiding drying food items in open or exposed areas.
She also encouraged households to seal holes and entry points in homes to prevent rodent intrusion, while maintaining regular handwashing and proper personal hygiene practices.
Residents were advised to report suspected symptoms through designated emergency lines: 0803 374 2052 and 0802 524 5809. Health workers were also directed to strictly adhere to infection prevention and control protocols.
The state government said surveillance has been intensified across health facilities and assured residents that the situation is under control.
Authorities further stated that there is no cause for panic, noting that Lassa Fever is both preventable and treatable when detected early.
