Just In: Oyo Government Begins Contact Tracing of 112 Persons, Tests 45 as Health Commissioner Gives Update on Lassa Fever Outbreak
The Oyo State Government has intensified response efforts following the confirmed Lassa fever case in the state, with 112 persons already identified for contact tracing and 45 currently undergoing tests.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, while giving an update on the state’s containment measures after the confirmed case.
According to her, safe measures have been put in place for the index case, while health officials have commenced tracing and monitoring of all identified contacts.
The State Government says it has activated emergency public health measures to contain the spread of Lassa fever following the confirmed case recorded in the state.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, explained that 112 persons have so far been listed as contacts of the index patient, while 45 of them are already being tested.
She noted that the identified contacts have been categorised based on their level of exposure, with some having close contact with the patient and others having minimal interaction.
Speaking on symptoms of the disease, Dr. Ajetunmobi listed fever, sore throat, excessive tiredness and abdominal pain as early warning signs, warning that severe bleeding may occur in advanced cases.
She stressed that early detection remains critical, noting that Lassa fever is preventable and treatable when reported promptly.
The commissioner urged residents to maintain strict hand hygiene, use face masks where necessary, and avoid unsafe environments.
She also advised households to store food in rodent-proof containers, cover meals properly, seal holes in buildings, and maintain environmental cleanliness to prevent rats from gaining access to homes.
As containment efforts continue, the state government reassured residents that surveillance and response activities remain ongoing to prevent further spread of the disease.
