Oyo State Activates Emergency Response After Lassa Fever Death in Ibadan

The Oyo State Government has activated emergency response measures following the confirmed death of a 44 year old woman from Lassa fever at the University College Hospital Ibadan, prompting renewed public health surveillance across the state.

According to health officials, the patient d on April 11 2026 while receiving treatment, with laboratory confirmation of Lassa fever received on April 13. The delay in confirmation raised concerns among authorities, leading to the immediate activation of the state’s Incident Management System for coordinated response and containment.

The Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, confirmed that contact tracing has already begun for individuals who may have been exposed to the case. She also stated that arrangements are underway for a safe and dignified burial in line with public health protocols to prevent further spread.

She urged residents to remain alert and seek medical attention early if symptoms appear, stressing that early detection significantly improves survival chances. Symptoms of Lassa fever include persistent fever, weakness, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, chest pain, difficulty breathing and unexplained bleeding.

Ajetunmobi explained that Lassa fever is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodents, while human to human transmission can occur through exposure to bodily fluids in poorly protected healthcare environments.

As part of preventive measures, residents have been advised to maintain proper hygiene, store food safely, avoid drying food in open areas, and ensure homes are sealed against rodent entry. Health authorities also encouraged frequent hand washing and the use of sanitizers.

The commissioner reassured the public that surveillance has been intensified across all health facilities in the state and that response systems have been strengthened to contain any possible spread. She emphasized that there is no need for panic, noting that Lassa fever is preventable and treatable when detected early.