Oyo Battles Lassa Fever: Two Hospitals Sealed, Contact Tracing Underway

The Oyo State Government has sealed two hospitals in response to a suspected Lassa fever outbreak that has claimed four lives in Saki West Local Government Area. This was confirmed today by the state’s rapid response team, which reported the fatalities as part of its ongoing investigation into the suspected outbreak.

Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, Oyo State Commissioner for Health, revealed in an official statement that those who lost their lives included three males and a 32-year-old woman who had been preparing for her wedding. According to Dr. Ajetunmobi, an apprentice at one of the affected hospitals, who had recently returned from Iwajowa and fell ill approximately two weeks prior, is believed to have been the source of the infection, subsequently transmitting it to other hospital staff and the hospital’s owner.

The Commissioner stated that the first hospital, where the four deaths occurred, has been closed to prevent further transmission and to allow thorough decontamination. Additionally, the second hospital, where the infected hospital owner was admitted without prior disclosure of the ‘unknown’ illness, was also sealed to undergo similar precautionary measures.

Dr. Ajetunmobi emphasized that the hospitals would remain closed until health officials complete necessary containment and decontamination procedures. The medical doctor who attended to the hospital owner has been placed under surveillance to monitor for any signs of illness.

The Commissioner further assured residents that the state’s health ministry is intensifying efforts to trace contacts, raise public awareness, and reinforce preventive measures against Lassa fever.