Taraba State is grappling with its most widespread Lassa fever outbreak in over a decade, with at least 15 deaths and 49 confirmed cases recorded across several local government areas.
Health authorities described the outbreak as the worst in 14 years, saying it has exposed gaps in early detection, public awareness, and health-seeking behaviour, even as medical personnel intensify efforts to contain the viral haemorrhagic disease.
The Acting Head of Clinical Services at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jalingo, Dr. Suleiman Kirim, confirmed the figures in an interview with journalists, expressing concern over the rising fatality rate. He disclosed that 45 patients are currently receiving treatment in health facilities across the state, while 20 others have been treated and discharged.
“The outbreak has put our facilities under serious pressure as we intensify efforts to contain the spread,” Kirim said.
He attributed the high mortality rate largely to delayed presentation at hospitals, noting that many patients initially resort to self-medication or traditional remedies before seeking professional medical care. “We are seeing cases that come in very late, and this reduces the chances of survival. Early detection and prompt treatment remain key to managing Lassa fever effectively,” he said.
Medical experts warned that although Lassa fever can be managed successfully when detected early, survival chances drop significantly once severe symptoms such as bleeding and organ complications develop.
Professor Joshua Difa of the Department of Public Health at FMC Jalingo said misinformation and scepticism about medical treatment are compounding containment efforts. He explained that Lassa fever is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by the urine or faeces of infected rodents, while human-to-human transmission can occur in healthcare settings lacking strict infection control.
“If preventive measures are not strictly adhered to, the disease can spread rapidly,” Difa warned, urging residents to maintain environmental sanitation, store food in rodent-proof containers, and avoid contact with rodents.
The Head of Paediatrics at FMC Jalingo, Dr. Philip Aboki, highlighted children’s vulnerability and advised parents to promptly report symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness, sore throat, vomiting, and unexplained bleeding to health facilities. “Children are not immune. Parents must seek medical help immediately when symptoms appear,” he said.
In response, the FMC is collaborating with the Taraba State Government and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control to strengthen surveillance, improve logistics, and enhance data management. State authorities have also intensified sensitisation campaigns, deployed rapid response teams, and increased surveillance in affected communities.
Health experts say the outbreak underscores the urgent need for improved public health awareness, early reporting systems, and stronger community trust in medical institutions.
