The Oyo State Government has confirmed a case of Lassa Fever at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, involving a 44-year-old woman who has died from the disease.
According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the patient was managed at the hospital but passed away on April 11, 2026, while laboratory confirmation of Lassa Fever was received two days later, on April 13.
The Commissioner disclosed that the state government, through the Ministry of Health, immediately activated its emergency response mechanisms upon confirmation of the case, including the Incident Management System (IMS) to coordinate response activities.
She noted that critical steps have already been taken, including the identification and monitoring of all contacts of the deceased, as well as arrangements for a safe and dignified burial.
Dr. Ajetunmobi urged residents to promptly seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness, sore throat, vomiting or diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding, chest pain, or difficulty in breathing, stressing that early presentation at health facilities significantly improves chances of survival.
She explained that Lassa Fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by urine or faeces of infected rodents. She added that human-to-human transmission can also occur through contact with bodily fluids, particularly in healthcare settings without proper precautions.
The Commissioner advised residents to maintain high environmental hygiene by keeping surroundings clean, storing food in rodent-proof containers, properly disposing of waste, and avoiding drying food items on the ground or roadside.
“They should take deliberate steps to avoid contact with rodents by sealing holes and entry points in their homes,” she said, adding that good personal hygiene, including regular handwashing and use of sanitizers, remains essential.
Residents experiencing symptoms were advised to report immediately through designated emergency lines: 08033742052 and 08025245809, while health workers were urged to strictly adhere to infection prevention and control protocols.
Dr. Ajetunmobi reassured the public that there is no cause for panic, noting that surveillance has been intensified across the state and all health facilities placed on high alert.
She emphasized that the government remains committed to safeguarding public health and is strengthening collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure a coordinated response.
“Lassa Fever is preventable and treatable, especially when detected early,” she stated..
The statement was signed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade
