By Adebayo Samson
The Oyo State Government has confirmed five cases of Lassa fever, including one death, and announced the activation of emergency measures to contain the outbreak and protect residents.
Speaking during a press briefing, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, disclosed that confirmed cases are being treated at designated facilities, including the State Infectious Disease Centre (IDC) in Olodo and the University College Hospital (UCH) isolation unit, where strict clinical and containment protocols are in operation.
Dr. Ajetunmobi said the state swiftly triggered its emergency response framework, deploying a coordinated multi-sectoral strategy aligned with guidelines from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
She praised Governor Seyi Makinde for his “decisive leadership and unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of residents,“ noting that prompt approval of emergency funds enabled a rapid response.
Key interventions, she said, include the activation of the Incident Management System (IMS) and Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), alongside the establishment of a multi-sectoral response team involving the Health, Environment, Agriculture and Information ministries.
The commissioner added that a comprehensive Incident Action Plan is being implemented, supported by intensified surveillance, active case searches, and monitoring of over 200 contacts.
She also highlighted the deployment of the Surveillance Outbreak Response Management and Analysis System (SORMAS), operationalisation of isolation centres, and stockpiling of Ribavirin and other essential supplies.
According to her, Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures have been reinforced, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), while safe burial practices are being carried out in collaboration with environmental health authorities.
She noted that environmental sanitation, fumigation and decontamination efforts are ongoing, alongside continuous training and sensitisation of healthcare workers.
Public awareness campaigns through the media and community engagement are also being intensified.
Dr. Ajetunmobi commended UCH for its role in case management and laboratory diagnosis, as well as the contributions of relevant ministries, development partners, and the NCDC.
She urged residents to adhere strictly to preventive measures, including proper food storage, maintaining clean environments, avoiding contact with rodents, practicing hand hygiene, and seeking prompt medical attention for symptoms.
She further advised residents to remain calm and cooperate with public health directives.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Engr. Ademola Aderinto, said environmental health officers have been deployed to sensitise residents and ensure food safety.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritising health and security.
Meanwhile, a representative of the Chief Medical Director of UCH, Prof. Jesse Otegbeye, represented by Prof. Bukola Adesina, described the government’s intervention as “robust, comprehensive, and reassuring,” noting that the support has enhanced effective case management
© 2026, Standard Focus. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from STANDARD FOCUS.