The Oyo State Government has confirmed a Lassa fever case at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.
The case involved a 44-year-old female who was managed at UCH and unfortunately passed away on 11 April 2026, while laboratory confirmation of Lassa fever was received on 13 April 2026.
In a statement by the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the State Government, through the Ministry of Health, immediately activated its emergency response mechanisms following confirmation of the case, adding that the Incident Management System (IMS) for Lassa fever has been fully activated to coordinate all response activities.
The Commissioner explained that key steps have been taken to identify and monitor all contacts of the deceased, ensuring that a safe and dignified burial is conducted.
Dr Ajetunmobi urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness or extreme fatigue, sore throat, vomiting or diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding (from gums, nose, urine, or injection sites), chest pain, or difficulty in breathing, emphasising that early presentation at any health facility will significantly improve chances of survival.
The Commissioner further explained that Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, which is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by urine or faeces of infected rodents.
She stressed that it can spread from person to person through contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals, particularly in healthcare settings where appropriate precautions are not taken.
Speaking further, the Honourable Commissioner advised residents to maintain a high level of environmental hygiene by keeping their homes and surroundings clean, storing food in rodent-proof containers, disposing of waste properly, and avoiding drying food items on the ground or by the roadside.
She said, “They should take deliberate steps to avoid contact with rodents by sealing holes and other entry points in their homes.”
“Good personal hygiene must be practised at all times, including regular hand washing with soap and water and the use of hand sanitisers where necessary.”
The Commissioner reiterated that the Oyo State Government remains fully committed to protecting the health and safety of all residents.
She noted that surveillance has been intensified across the state, and all health facilities have been placed on high alert.
Consequently, the Government is strengthening collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and effective response. The Commissioner said that residents are hereby assured that there is no cause for panic and the situation is under control.
All necessary public health measures are being effectively implemented. Lassa fever is preventable and treatable, especially when detected early.