Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has announced that the state has recorded 23 deaths out of 48 confirmed cases of Lassa fever between January and December 2024.

Speaking during the handing over ceremony of Medecins Sans Frontierses (MSF) Lassa fever support activities to the state ministry of health.

The governor expressed grief over the lives lost and commended Doctors Without Borders for their role in saving the lives of those who survived the disease.

The governor revealed that 25 infected persons have been treated and discharged, and acknowledged the significant strides made by MSF in supporting the state’s health sector.

READ ALSO:

Murder: Four family members sentenced to death by hanging in Jigawa

Senate gives SEC more powers to boost investments, securities

Amendment: Understanding Section 4, under “Performance based analysis” in NAHCON Establishment Act (II)

MSF has been an official health partner to Ebonyi State since 2018, providing surveillance, diagnosis, case management, prevention, and control measures, as well as humanitarian support to those affected by Lassa fever.

Governor Nwifuru attributed the spread of Lassa fever to sociocultural practices, poor health-seeking behavior, and environmental sanitation conditions.

He emphasized his administration’s commitment to providing quality and accessible healthcare to all Ebonyians, highlighting various interventions such as the employment of qualified healthcare personnel, procurement of hospital equipment, and renovation of primary healthcare centers.

The governor pledged to continue supporting MSF’s efforts in the state, ensuring that every Ebonyian has access to basic, affordable, and quality healthcare. With Lassa fever being a periodical illness that occurs in outbreaks, typically peaking between December and April, the state’s efforts to combat the disease are crucial