Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru reported that the state recorded 23 fatalities and 48 confirmed cases of Lassa fever from January to December 2024. He noted that 25 infected individuals received treatment and were successfully discharged, expressing his condolences for those who lost their lives. The governor made this announcement during the handover of Doctors Without Borders (MSF) Lassa fever support activities to the state’s Ministry of Health on Thursday in Abakaliki, the state capital.
He expressed concern over the high fatality rate of Lassa fever in Ebonyi and throughout Nigeria, stating that MSF’s contributions are vital to the health and well-being of residents in Ebonyi. Governor Nwifuru outlined several factors contributing to the spread of Lassa fever, such as poor health-seeking behaviors, inadequate sanitation, limited awareness, and insufficient community engagement.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare, particularly in addressing life-threatening diseases like Lassa fever and cholera. He also emphasized initiatives from his administration, including hiring healthcare professionals, acquiring medical equipment, and revitalizing 171 primary healthcare centers across the state.
