The Ebonyi State government has confirmed that 23 individuals have lost their lives to Lassa Fever out of 48 confirmed cases reported in 2024. The state has also documented 394 suspected cases of the disease from January to December.
Governor Francis Nwifuru disclosed these figures on Thursday in Abakaliki during the formal handover of Lassa Fever support activities from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, to the state government.
Expressing sorrow over the loss of lives, Governor Nwifuru commended MSF for their critical role in treating survivors of the disease and managing the outbreak. He highlighted the factors contributing to the virus’s spread, including sociocultural practices, poor health-seeking behavior, inadequate sanitation, lack of awareness, and limited community engagement.
“We deeply appreciate the exceptional efforts of MSF, whose contributions have been invaluable in improving the health and well-being of our people,” the governor stated. “The achievements of MSF in enhancing public health are immense, and as a government, we remain profoundly grateful for their support.”
Nwifuru noted that MSF became an official health partner of Ebonyi State through the Ministry of Health in 2018 and has since been a steadfast ally.
“According to national records, Nigeria has reported over 4,726 cases of Lassa Fever this year, with a significant fatality rate. Here in Ebonyi State, we’ve had 394 suspected cases, of which 48 were confirmed. Unfortunately, 23 of these cases resulted in death, while 25 individuals have recovered and been discharged,” Nwifuru explained.
The governor praised MSF’s proactive and tireless efforts in the state’s health sector, expressing optimism about the complete elimination of Lassa Fever with sustained collaboration. “I am confident that, with your continued partnership, we will soon overcome this deadly virus. Your support will expedite our mission to eradicate Lassa Fever in Ebonyi State,” he added.
Nwifuru also appealed to MSF to extend their partnership with the state in the interest of humanity. He pledged the government’s commitment to providing the necessary resources and support to achieve the goal of eradicating the disease.
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