Jalingo, Taraba — Taraba State is facing one of its most severe Lassa fever outbreaks in over a decade, with 15 deaths and 49 confirmed infections recorded across multiple local government areas, according to health authorities.
Medical officials describe the outbreak as the worst in at least 14 years, highlighting gaps in early detection, public awareness, and health-seeking behaviour that have hindered containment efforts.
The Acting Head of Clinical Services at FMC Jalingo confirmed the figures, noting that dozens of patients remain hospitalized while others have been discharged after treatment. Hospitals, especially FMC Jalingo, are under intense pressure as medical teams work round the clock to manage both confirmed and suspected cases.
Experts attribute the high fatality rate largely to delayed hospital visits, with many patients initially resorting to self-medication or traditional remedies before seeking professional care. Early detection remains crucial for effective treatment, as the antiviral ribavirin is most effective in the early stages of infection.
Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic illness, spreads primarily through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodents, particularly the multimammate rat. Human-to-human transmission is also possible, especially in healthcare or household settings with poor infection control.
The Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, in collaboration with the Taraba State Government and the NCDC, has strengthened surveillance, logistics, and rapid response efforts to contain the outbreak. Health authorities continue to urge the public to report symptoms early, observe proper sanitation, and adhere to infection prevention measures to reduce transmission.
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