The Enugu State Government has intensified surveillance and rolled out preventive guidelines following confirmed outbreaks of Lassa fever in three neighbouring states, urging residents to remain calm but vigilant.
Speaking at a press briefing in Enugu, the State Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, said the government convened the session to update the public on the national situation and outline proactive measures being taken to safeguard residents.
“I have convened this press briefing today to provide an important update on the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak in Nigeria and the proactive steps the State is taking to protect our residents,” he said.
Ugwu disclosed that Nigeria has reported 1,469 suspected cases, 318 confirmed cases and over 70 deaths in the current outbreak season.
According to him, confirmed cases have been recorded in Taraba, Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi and Ebonyi states — many of which either border or lie close to Enugu.
“This geographic spread shows that the outbreak is not limited to one region, and neighboring states, such as Enugu State, remain at risk,” he stated.
He noted that Benue State has recorded 250 suspected cases, 45 confirmed cases and 10 deaths among healthcare workers, while more than six confirmed cases have been reported in Ebonyi State.
Enugu on High Alert
The commissioner revealed that although Enugu has not recorded any confirmed case this season, the state has documented nine suspected cases.
“As of this morning, I can confirm that Enugu State has recorded nine suspected cases but no confirmed case of Lassa fever in this current season,” Ugwu said.
“However, because of our proximity to these affected areas — particularly our shared borders with Benue and Ebonyi States — we are now in a high alert phase and engaging our partners.”
Directives to Health Facilities
The commissioner issued strict advisories to both public and private health facilities, making patient triaging mandatory at designated points.
“Triaging of patients is mandatory for all patients at a designated point of the facility,” he directed.
He added that patients showing symptoms of infectious diseases should be referred to facilities with the capacity to manage them, while tertiary institutions must provide holding areas for suspected cases and immediately notify the state through proper channels.
Ugwu further stressed the importance of strict Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures, the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and maintaining a high index of suspicion for persistent fever not responding to malaria treatment.
He also urged health facilities to ensure proper waste disposal and disinfection procedures.
Prevention Tips for Residents
Addressing the general public, the commissioner advised residents to adhere strictly to preventive measures.
“Enugu State Ministry of Health advises all residents to remain calm but vigilant,” he said.
He urged households to maintain rodent-free environments by blocking holes in walls and floors, clearing bushes around homes, and avoiding refuse dumps near residential areas.
Residents were also advised to store food in tightly sealed containers, avoid drying food by the roadside, and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.
“Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water. Use hand sanitizers where water is not available,” Ugwu added.
He warned against handling or consuming rats and other rodents, as well as contact with the bodily fluids of sick individuals.
The commissioner emphasized early medical intervention for symptoms such as persistent fever not responding to malaria treatment, headache, vomiting, abdominal pain and unexplained bleeding.
“Early treatment greatly increases chances of survival,” he noted, cautioning against self-medication.
Advisory to the Media
Ugwu also appealed to media practitioners to support containment efforts.
“Disseminate only verified information from Enugu State Ministry of Health. Avoid sensational reporting that may cause panic. Help promote accurate prevention messages,” he said.
Government Preparedness Measures
Outlining government action, the commissioner disclosed that surveillance has been elevated to “Enhanced Mode” across all local government areas, particularly in identified hotspots.
Rapid Response Teams are on 24-hour standby, while essential commodities including PPEs, medicines and body bags for safe burials have been pre-positioned.
Risk communication materials, he added, are being deployed in local languages to improve public awareness.
‘If You See Something, Say Something’
Concluding, Ugwu described Lassa fever as a serious but preventable and treatable disease if detected early.
“With collective responsibility, proper environmental sanitation, strict hygiene practices and prompt reporting of symptoms, we can significantly reduce transmission and save lives,” he said.
He urged residents to report suspected cases immediately.
“If you see something, say something,” he appealed, providing emergency contact numbers for the Director of Public Health and Incident Manager (0803 743 1577) and the State Epidemiologist (0803 337 5344),” the commissioner concluded.
