The Ebonyi State government has confirmed that 23 people have died from Lassa Fever, out of 48 confirmed cases reported this year.
The state said it has recorded 394 suspected cases of the disease from January to December 2024.
Governor Francis Nwifuru disclosed the figures on Thursday in Abakaliki during the official handover of Lassa Fever support activities from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, to the state government.
While expressing grief over the loss of lives, Nwifuru commended the lifesaving efforts of MSF in treating those who survived the disease, stating the critical role of the organisation’s support in managing the outbreak.
“The spread of this virus is believed to be exacerbated by sociocultural practices, poor health-seeking behaviour, inadequate environmental sanitation, lack of awareness, and limited community engagement.
“We commend the outstanding efforts of our international health partner, MSF (Médecins Sans Frontières), for their invaluable contribution.
“The humanitarian achievements of MSF in improving the health and well-being of our people are immense, and as a government, we are deeply grateful for their support.
“MSF officially became a health partner to Ebonyi State through the Ministry of Health in 2018 and has remained a committed ally since then,” Nwifuru stated.
He said, “According to records, Nigeria has reported over 4,726 cases of the disease this year, with a significant fatality rate. In Ebonyi State alone, we have recorded 394 suspected cases since January, with 48 confirmed cases, 23 of which resulted in death, while 25 individuals have been discharged.
“As governor, I am highly satisfied with the proactive, tireless, and remarkable efforts you have made in our health sector since 2018. I am confident that, with your continued support, we will soon overcome and completely eliminate the threat of Lassa Fever. Your partnership will accelerate our efforts in tackling this deadly virus.”
The governor also urged MSF leadership to consider the state’s sincere appeal and continue the partnership in the interest of humanity.
He pledged his commitment to providing the necessary support to achieve the goal of eradicating Lassa Fever in Ebonyi State.