Ogun Confirms Lassa Fever Outbreak As NYSC Member Dies

Ogun State has declared an outbreak of Lassa fever following the tragic death of a 25-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member at a secondary health facility in Ijebu North Local Government Area.

Lassa Fever Outbreak Confirmed in Ogun State

According to an official statement released by the Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, the deceased corps member had initially fallen ill while in Ondo State before being transferred to the Ogun healthcare facility on March 18, 2025. Sadly, she passed away on the same day.

The Commissioner confirmed the outbreak, stating:

“Ogun State has recorded a case of Lassa fever and is, therefore, declaring an outbreak of the disease. The index case is a 25-year-old female NYSC member who was brought to our facility after experiencing symptoms in Ondo State. Unfortunately, she did not survive.”

What is Lassa Fever?

Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness that can cause severe health complications, including:

High fever
Headache and body weakness
Sore throat and muscle pain
Persistent cough, nausea, and vomiting
Diarrhea and chest pain
Unexplained bleeding from the ears, nose, mouth, or other body openings

Public Health Advisory: Symptoms and Precautions

Dr. Coker urged community members and healthcare workers to take necessary precautions. She advised anyone experiencing febrile symptoms that do not respond to malaria or antibiotic treatments within 48 hours to seek urgent medical attention.

She also instructed all healthcare facilities in Ogun State—both public and private—to strengthen infection prevention and control (IPC) measures and ensure strict compliance among staff.

For suspected cases, medical practitioners should immediately contact:

Local Government Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (LGA DSNO) (contact details available in health facilities)
State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer: +234 703 421 4893
State Epidemiologist: +234 808 425 0881

Government’s Response to Contain Lassa Fever

The Ogun State Government, led by Governor Dapo Abiodun, has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health. Dr. Coker stated that the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Rapid Response Team in Ijebu North East, is actively working to contain the spread of the virus through enhanced surveillance, community engagement, and mobilization efforts.

For more details about Lassa fever and preventive measures, visit the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) official website: NCDC Lassa Fever Guid