The State Ministry of Health has officially confirmed an outbreak of Dengue Fever, with a total of 86 cases reported across multiple local government areas. The announcement was made on Friday by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, during a press briefing.
Dr. Oshiomhole assured the public that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo is fully committed to safeguarding the health of residents and is working diligently to contain and manage the outbreak. “Our government is taking swift and comprehensive measures to ensure this outbreak and others are brought under control,” he stated.
To lead the response efforts, the Director of Public Health, Dr. Stephenson Ojiefoh, has been appointed as the Incident Manager. According to the Commissioner, the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) has been activated, and a comprehensive state-wide response plan is being implemented.
The response strategy includes intensified disease surveillance, effective case management, vector control, and robust environmental sanitation efforts in all affected areas. Dr. Oshiomhole also called on healthcare workers throughout the state to remain vigilant and to report any suspected cases of Dengue Fever without delay.
Key stakeholders, including representatives from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the State Disease Surveillance Team, directors from the State Ministry of Health, and officials from the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), were present at the press briefing.
Dr. Oshiomhole explained that Dengue Fever is a viral illness transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, especially Aedes aegypti. The disease spreads quickly in areas with poor hygiene and stagnant water, which provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
To prevent further spread, residents have been advised to maintain clean surroundings, cover water storage containers, sleep under mosquito nets, apply insect repellents, and eliminate all potential mosquito breeding sites.
In addition to the Dengue Fever outbreak, the Commissioner provided updates on other health challenges currently affecting the state. These include:
Lassa Fever: 137 confirmed cases with 24 recorded deaths
Yellow Fever: 2 confirmed cases with 1 death
Monkeypox (Npox): 8 confirmed cases with no deaths
Diphtheria: 8 confirmed cases with 3 deaths
The Ministry of Health continues to work in collaboration with national health bodies and local authorities to curb the spread of these diseases and ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
