Lassa fever has claimed lives in Benue and Jigawa states amid an upsurge in cases across Nigeria. In Benue, two people have died from the viral hemorrhagic illness, with seven confirmed infections reported earlier, bringing the total suspected cases to nine, five of which tested positive.
The Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Paul Ogwuche, disclosed the fatalities during a briefing in Makurdi on January 30, 2026. Makurdi and Buruku local government areas are the most affected, with two health workers among those infected.
The commissioner explained that the dry season heightens risk, as burning grasses drives rodents—the primary carriers—into homes seeking shelter and food. Uncovered food items can become contaminated, leading to transmission.
Symptoms include prolonged fever, body weakness, fatigue, and bleeding from body openings. The ministry has activated its rapid response team and public health emergency operations centre, stepped up awareness campaigns, and strengthened laboratory capacity.
A stakeholders’ meeting involving federal medical centres, teaching hospitals, the World Health Organisation, state epidemiologists, and donor partners is underway to contain the outbreak.
The commissioner explained that the dry season heightens risk, as burning grasses drives rodents—the primary carriers—into homes seeking shelter and food. Uncovered food items can become contaminated, leading to transmission. Symptoms include prolonged fever, body weakness, fatigue, and bleeding from body openings.
The ministry has activated its rapid response team and public health emergency operations centre, stepped up awareness campaigns, and strengthened laboratory capacity.
A stakeholders’ meeting involving federal medical centres, teaching hospitals, the World Health Organisation, state epidemiologists, and donor partners is underway to contain the outbreak.
In Jigawa State, one death from Lassa fever was confirmed on Wednesday, January 29, 2026, following an investigation at Babura General Hospital. The Jigawa State Rapid Response Team from the Public Health Department, led by WHO/APHO
Dr.Sabiu Aliyu, verified the case in Babura Local Government Area. Several contacts are under surveillance for symptoms, with health officials monitoring closely to prevent further spread.
These incidents reflect Nigeria’s persistent Lassa fever challenge, particularly during the dry season when rodent activity increases. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported rising cases and deaths nationwide in early 2026.
Authorities in both states urge residents to maintain strict hygiene, store food securely, avoid rodent-infested areas, and seek early medical attention for symptoms. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment remain essential for managing the disease and limiting fatalities.
The outbreaks highlight the need for sustained surveillance, community education, and rodent control measures to protect vulnerable populations.
Security concerns extend to international cooperation, as the US military has dispatched troops to Nigeria against Boko Haram and banditry.”
