February 14, 2026 l Dalena Reporters
The Edo State Government has formally declared an outbreak of Lassa fever after confirming that six people have died from the viral disease and 28 others have tested positive across parts of the state, health authorities announced on Friday, February 13, 2026. The declaration follows a sharp increase in cases in recent days, prompting urgent public health action.
In an address to journalists in Benin City, Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, confirmed that the deaths occurred alongside the ongoing spread of Lassa fever, particularly in Etsako West and Esan West Local Government Areas areas that now represent critical hotspots of transmission within the state. Dr. Oshiomhole emphasised that the trend of confirmed infections reflects sustained community transmission that demands a coordinated and immediate response.
“We have now recorded 28 laboratory-confirmed cases of Lassa fever with six reported deaths in Edo State,” Dr. Oshiomhole said, underlining the seriousness of the outbreak and the decision to elevate emergency health measures.
In response, the Edo government has activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC), a multi-agency coordination platform aligned with national and international public health protocols. Dr. Oshiomhole explained that daily situation reports will be issued from the Director of Public Health’s office as officials monitor the outbreak and refine containment strategies.
Lassa fever — caused by a virus endemic to parts of West Africa — is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodent excreta and can range from mild symptoms to severe, life-threatening conditions such as bleeding and shock. Early treatment with antiviral medication like ribavirin is critical in reducing mortality.
Across Nigeria, Lassa fever remains a persistent public health concern, with recent national reports showing multiple states grappling with increased caseloads and fatalities during the 2026 season. Health experts have repeatedly urged heightened surveillance, community education on prevention, and rapid clinical response to stem the spread.
With the Edo outbreak now officially recognised, authorities are calling for heightened cooperation from communities, especially in affected areas, to report suspected cases early and observe preventive measures that can limit further transmission.