Ebonyi State records 23 deaths, see cause of deaths.
Cause of death in Ebonyi State
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has confirmed that the state recorded 23 deaths and 48 confirmed cases of Lassa fever from January to December 2024.
He shared this information during the handover ceremony of MSF’s Lassa fever support activities to the state’s Ministry of Health. He expressed concern over the high fatality rate of Lassa fever, both in Ebonyi and nationwide
Nwifuru stated that health workers treated and discharged 25 individuals infected with Lassa fever. He expressed grief over the 23 lives lost . and praised Doctors Without Borders (MSF) for saving those who survived.
The statement acknowledges the significant contributions made by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in improving the health and well-being of the people of Ebonyi State. Since their partnership began in 2018, MSF has been instrumental in addressing public health challenges, particularly in the fight against Lassa fever. The organization has provided crucial support in various areas, including surveillance, diagnosis, case management, and prevention efforts. The government expresses deep gratitude for MSF’s ongoing humanitarian assistance, highlighting the valuable role they have played in combating health crises in the state.
Meaning of Lassa Fever
Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus, is transmitted by multi-mammate rats. The disease has become endemic in Nigeria and other parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, largely due to Ebonyi’s tropical environment, which includes bush masses and forests that serve as habitats for these animal hosts and virus reservoirs. Outbreaks of the disease typically occur, with peaks from December to April.
Governor Nwifuru emphasized that poor health-seeking behavior, inadequate environmental sanitation, lack of awareness, and limited community engagement contribute to the spread of the virus. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare for Ebonyians, particularly in addressing life-threatening diseases like Lassa fever and cholera.
He then stated that his administration has improved healthcare by hiring qualified personnel, acquiring medical equipment, and revitalizing 171 primary healthcare centers. It has also provided new ambulances, motorcycles for healthcare officers, and SUVs for doctors in general hospitals.
“I promise to offer you every feasible support you need to accomplish your goals in Ebonyi State,” Governor Nwifuru then concluded.
