The Oyo State Government has confirmed five cases of Lassa fever outbreak, with one death, assuring residents that swift response measures have been activated to contain the spread and protect public health.

Speaking at a press briefing, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi explained that the confirmed cases are currently being managed in designated isolation and treatment facilities, including the State Infectious Disease Centre (IDC), Olodo, and the University College Hospital (UCH) isolation unit, where specialized clinical care and containment protocols are being implemented.

The Commissioner stated that the state government promptly activated its emergency response framework, initiating a coordinated multi-sectoral intervention in line with national guidelines from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and global standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

She appreciated the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. ‘Seyi Makinde, for his decisive leadership and unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of residents, noting that his timely approval and release of emergency funds facilitated rapid operationalization of the response structure.

Dr. Ajetunmobi outlined key interventions already implemented, including the activation of the Incident Management System (IMS) and Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), as well as the establishment of a multi-sectoral response team comprising the Health, Environment, Agriculture, and Information sectors.

She further noted that a comprehensive Incident Action Plan has been developed and is being implemented, alongside intensified surveillance, including active case search and monitoring of over 200 identified contacts.

Other measures include the deployment of the Surveillance Outbreak Response Management and Analysis System (SORMAS) for real-time data management, operationalization of isolation centres, and prepositioning of Ribavirin and other essential commodities.

In addition, Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures have been strengthened, including provision and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Safe and dignified burial protocols are also being implemented in collaboration with environmental health authorities.

She added that environmental sanitation, fumigation, and decontamination of affected areas are ongoing, while continuous capacity building and sensitization of healthcare workers are being carried out. Public risk communication through mass media, information materials, and community engagement is also being sustained.

The Commissioner further emphasized strengthened laboratory coordination with the UCH Biorepository Clinical Virology Laboratory to support timely diagnosis and response.

She acknowledged the strong intersectoral collaboration that has made the response effective, appreciating UCH, Ibadan, for its critical role in case management, laboratory diagnosis, and clinical support.

She also commended the Ministries of Environment, Agriculture, and Information, as well as development partners for their technical and logistical support. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) was also appreciated for its technical leadership and coordination.