Ogun Confirms Lassa Fever Outbreak as NYSC Member Dies

A 25-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member has died from Lassa fever at a hospital in Ijebu North Local Government Area of Ogun State.

According to the Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Tomi Coker, the female corps member fell sick while in Ondo State and was brought to the hospital on March 18, 2025. She died the same day.

Coker confirmed that the state has recorded a case of Lassa fever and declared an outbreak. She explained that Lassa fever is a viral infection that causes high fever, headaches, sore throat, muscle pain, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, and unexplained bleeding from body openings.

She urged residents to visit a hospital immediately if they notice any of these symptoms, especially if fever does not improve after 48 hours of using malaria or antibiotic treatment.

Health facilities across the state have been directed to strengthen infection control measures. Medical workers suspecting Lassa fever cases should report them to the local or state disease surveillance officers using the emergency contact numbers provided in health facilities.

Coker assured residents that the state government is actively monitoring the situation and working with the Rapid Response Team in Ijebu North East to contain the spread through surveillance and community engagement.