In a press briefing on Tuesday, Dr. Ortese Yanmar, Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, delivered an assessment of the state’s health security concerns, revealing the emergence of dual outbreaks of measles and Lassa fever.
“We have recorded 31 confirmed cases of measles across five local government areas of Benue State,” Dr. Yanmar announced, highlighting the geographical spread of the outbreak.
However, he noted with concern that “there are about 256 suspected cases of measles in Benue,” indicating the potential for further escalation if left unchecked.
Turning to the escalating crisis of Lassa fever, Dr. Yanmar expressed alarm at the rising number of cases and fatalities. “Presently, there are about 725 suspected cases, 55 confirmed cases, and 13 deaths from Lassa fever,” he stated, underscoring the severity of the situation.
The commissioner lamented the increase in the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) to 23.6, warning that the disease has spread to nine LGAs in Benue, posing a significant public health threat.
“It is important at this point to add that the state is also currently experiencing outbreaks of measles,” Dr. Yanmar emphasized, drawing attention to the need for comprehensive intervention strategies.
He called for collaborative efforts, stating, “The state team has responded to the situation, and our surveillance officers are following the events very closely.” Dr. Yanmar extended an invitation to technical partners with expertise in outbreak containment to join forces in enhancing the state’s health security.
Highlighting Nigeria’s status as a global hotspot for Lassa fever, Dr. Yanmar cited data from the World Health Organization (WHO) to underscore the magnitude of the challenge.
“Nigeria is the country with the highest number of reported Lassa fever cases and deaths globally,” he stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
In addressing the outbreak response, Dr. Yanmar recounted a recent incident in an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp, where four individuals were diagnosed with Lassa fever.
“This population is highly vulnerable due to overcrowding and poor hygiene,” he remarked, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in at-risk communities.
As the healthcare system grapples with the influx of cases, Dr. Yanmar acknowledged the strain on facilities such as the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) Treatment Centre.
“Cumulatively, from the onset of the outbreak, BSUTH Treatment Centre has managed 90 cases,” he observed, illustrating the growing burden on healthcare providers.