At least six people have died and 28 others have tested positive for Lassa fever in Edo State, health authorities have confirmed, sparking the activation of emergency public health measures across the state.

The State Commissioner for Health, Cyril Oshiomhole, told journalists in Benin City on Friday that the recent rise in confirmed cases, especially in Etsako West and Esan West Local Government Areas, indicates sustained community transmission of the viral disease.

He said the trend has prompted the government to formally declare a Lassa fever outbreak in the state.

“As of today, Edo State has recorded 28 laboratory-confirmed cases of Lassa Fever with six reported deaths,” Oshiomhole said, stressing that the situation requires immediate, coordinated, and escalated response.

In line with national and international health protocols, Edo State has activated all pillars of its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) to coordinate a comprehensive response to the outbreak.

The centre will operate under the guidance of the Director of Public Health, who will provide daily situation reports directly to the Commissioner for Health.

The government said it had taken proactive steps ahead of the outbreak by donating Lassa Fever treatment packs to the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH) — a designated treatment centre for the disease.

Dr. Oshiomhole reassured residents that the state remains vigilant and committed to containing the spread of the infection while safeguarding public health.

Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness endemic in parts of West Africa.

It is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated with the urine or feces of infected rodents.

In severe cases, the illness can be life-threatening, making early detection and treatment critical.

The outbreak in Edo comes amid broader concerns over rising Lassa fever cases in Nigeria, which have been reported across multiple states in recent years, often with significant fatality rates.

Health officials continue to encourage heightened vigilance, prompt reporting of symptoms, and community cooperation with response efforts to curb further spread.