By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Oyo State Government has officially confirmed a new case of Lassa fever within the state. In response to this development, the Ministry of Health immediately activated its Emergency Operations Centre and established a technical working group to manage the situation and prevent a potential outbreak.

To contain the virus, the state’s Rapid Response Team has commenced intensive contact tracing and surveillance. Health officials are currently monitoring individuals who had direct contact with the confirmed case to ensure early detection of any secondary infections and to provide prompt medical intervention.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, reassured the public that the government is fully prepared to handle the situation. She noted that specialized treatment centers have been designated and medical supplies, including essential antiviral drugs, have been prepositioned to manage any further cases that may arise.

Public health awareness campaigns have been intensified across the state to educate residents on the dangers of the disease. The ministry is emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards of environmental hygiene and securing food items to prevent contamination by rodents, which are the primary carriers of the virus.

Residents have been strongly advised to avoid self-medication and to report any symptoms—such as persistent fever, body weakness, and headaches—to the nearest health facility. Early reporting is being promoted as a critical factor in increasing the chances of survival for infected individuals and stopping the spread.

The government continues to collaborate with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and other health partners to strengthen its response.

Authorities remain on high alert, urging citizens to stay calm while adhering to all preventive protocols to keep the state safe from a full-scale epidemic.