NYSC Member Dies of Lassa Fever in Ogun as State Declares Outbreak

NYSC Member Dies of Lassa Fever in Ogun as State Declares Outbreak

Lassa Fever Claims Life of 25-Year-Old NYSC Member in Ogun

A 25-year-old female member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has tragically died of Lassa fever at a secondary health facility in Ijebu North Local Government Area of Ogun State.

The deceased, who initially fell ill while in Ondo State, was brought to the Ogun health facility on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, but sadly passed away the same day.

Confirming the incident, the Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, announced the official outbreak of Lassa fever in the state.

Ogun Declares Lassa Fever Outbreak

In a statement released on Wednesday, Dr. Coker emphasized the severity of the disease and urged immediate precautions.

> “Ogun State has confirmed a case of Lassa fever and as such declared an outbreak,” she stated.

She described Lassa fever as a viral hemorrhagic disease that presents with:

High-grade fever

Headache and muscle pain

Sore throat and cough

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

Chest pain and general body weakness

Unexplained bleeding from the eyes, nose, mouth, or other body openings

Health Authorities Urge Immediate Action

In light of the outbreak, health officials have called on residents to be vigilant and seek medical attention at the first sign of symptoms.

Dr. Coker advised:

> “Any case of febrile illness that does not respond to anti-malarial or antibiotic treatment within 48 hours should raise suspicion of Lassa fever. We implore members of the community to report such cases immediately.”

She also urged healthcare workers across public and private hospitals to intensify infection prevention and control measures to curb the spread of the virus.

Emergency Contact Information for Suspected Cases

Healthcare workers and residents are encouraged to report suspected Lassa fever cases to the following:

Local Government Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (LGA DSNO) – Contact numbers are displayed in health facilities.

State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer: 0703-421-4893

State Epidemiologist: 0808-425-0881

Ogun Government’s Response to the Outbreak

The Dapo Abiodun-led administration has assured citizens that the government is working swiftly to contain the outbreak.

Dr. Coker highlighted that the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Rapid Response Team in Ijebu North East, has:

Enhanced surveillance to track potential cases.

Mobilized community engagement programs to educate residents on preventive measures.

Strengthened response coordination with health agencies.

What is Lassa Fever and How to Stay Safe?

Lassa fever is a deadly viral infection primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by rat urine or feces. It can also spread from person to person through bodily fluids.

Preventive Measures

To reduce the risk of infection, residents should:

✅ Keep homes and food storage areas rat-free
✅ Avoid consuming food exposed to rodents
✅ Wash hands regularly with soap and water
✅ Ensure proper waste disposal
✅ Use protective gear when caring for infected persons

Final Thoughts

As Ogun battles this public health emergency, residents must remain alert and follow official health guidelines to prevent further spread. With early detection, strict hygiene, and medical intervention, Lassa fever can be contained.

For real-time updates on the Lassa fever outbreak in Ogun, stay connected with Parrot Newspaper – News That Talks to You.