Tsokundi, Donga Worst Hit As Lassa Fever Outbreak In Taraba Claims 15

Taraba State is grappling with its most widespread Lassa fever outbreak in over a decade, with no fewer than 15 deaths and 49 confirmed cases recorded across several local government areas. Health authorities have identified Tsokundi and Donga as the worst-hit areas in the current outbreak, described as the most severe in the last 14 years.

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. According to him, about 45 patients are currently receiving treatment at various health facilities across the state, while 20 others have been successfully treated and discharged.

Dr. Kirim said the outbreak has placed enormous pressure on health facilities, particularly FMC Jalingo, where medical personnel are working round the clock to manage confirmed and suspected cases. "The outbreak has put our facilities under serious pressure as we intensify efforts to contain the spread," he stated.

Health experts attribute the high mortality rate largely to delayed hospital presentation, noting that many patients initially resort to self-medication and traditional remedies before seeking professional 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," Dr. Kirim added.

Medical professionals warn that while Lassa fever can be successfully managed when detected early, survival chances drop significantly once patients present severe symptoms such as bleeding and organ complications. Widespread misinformation and skepticism about orthodox treatment have also compounded containment efforts, with some residents failing to comply with preventive measures.

Professor Joshua Difa of the Department of Public Health at FMC Jalingo explained that Lassa fever is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by the urine or feces of infected rodents. He added that human-to-human transmission can also occur, particularly in healthcare settings where infection prevention protocols are not strictly observed.

"If preventive measures are not strictly adhered to, the disease can spread rapidly," Professor Difa warned, urging residents to maintain proper sanitation, store food in rodent-proof containers, and avoid contact with rodents. He also called on health workers to strictly observe infection prevention and control measures.

The Head of Pediatrics at FMC Jalingo, Dr. Philip Aboki, highlighted the vulnerability of children and urged parents to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness, sore throat, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding occur. "Children are not immune. Parents must seek medical help immediately when symptoms appear," he said.

In response to the outbreak, FMC Jalingo is collaborating with the Taraba State Government and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to strengthen surveillance, improve logistics, and enhance data management. Rapid response teams have been deployed to affected communities, while sensitization campaigns have intensified.

The Wife of the Taraba State Governor, Mrs. Agyin Kefas, has also called on residents to remain vigilant and take preventive measures. She urged the public to maintain clean environments, properly store and cover food items, avoid contact with rats and rodents, practice regular handwashing with soap and water, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms arise.

"Early detection and prompt treatment can save lives. Please avoid self-medication and report suspected cases to health authorities. Together, through awareness, responsibility and collective action, we can curb the spread of Lassa fever and keep Taraba State safe and healthy," she said.

As the state battles its worst outbreak in 14 years, health experts stress that improved public awareness, early reporting, and stronger community trust in medical institutions remain critical to containing the disease.