Oyo State has reported 131 suspected cases of Lassa fever from January to September 10, 2026. Out of these, six cases have been confirmed and one person has died.
The state Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, shared this information during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Thursday.
Ms Ajetunmobi explained that these numbers do not mean there is a Lassa fever outbreak in the state. She mentioned that Lassa fever is common in some areas of Oyo State. She added that just one confirmed case is seen as an outbreak.
"But such suspected cases could not be classified as confirmed until laboratory tests established the infection," she said.
She pointed out, "Many suspected cases were reported because the initial symptoms of Lassa fever could resemble malaria and other febrile illnesses."
"We have 131 suspected cases, and out of these, we have six confirmed cases and one dead," she noted.
The commissioner highlighted that some patients showed fever and symptoms that could look like malaria or other infections. This is why laboratory tests are needed for accurate diagnosis.
She explained that samples from suspected cases are collected and sent to labs for confirmation. Confirmed cases receive treatment right away.
Ms Ajetunmobi stated that the state’s public health emergency operation centre and surveillance officers are activated when a suspected case is found. Samples are taken for lab tests, and if it is Lassa fever, treatment begins immediately. "Suspected cases that tested negative were subsequently ruled out," she said.
She urged residents to be alert, especially since changing weather patterns seem to affect when Lassa fever spreads. The commissioner remarked that Lassa fever typically happens during the dry season, especially in October and November and again in March and April. But now, suspected cases are showing up outside these times.
She advised people to keep their surroundings clean. Poor waste disposal can help rats, which spread Lassa fever, to thrive.
Ms Ajetunmobi encouraged households to maintain cleanliness, dispose of waste properly, block areas where rodents can enter homes, and keep food covered.
She also suggested that people wash their hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer when needed.
The commissioner specifically told healthcare workers to follow infection prevention and control rules when treating patients with fever or similar symptoms.
"Treat every patient as a case of infection. It is very important to use gloves, face masks and other personal protective equipment when attending to patients," she said.
Ms Ajetunmobi listed symptoms that should raise concern. These include fever, sore throat, vomiting, weakness and, in severe cases, bleeding from body openings.
She urged residents not to hide their illness or delay getting medical help. Waiting too long can lead to serious problems.
The commissioner also called for more public awareness about Lassa fever and other infectious diseases. She said the current alerts aim to promote vigilance, not to cause panic.
She encouraged residents to take charge of their health. They should adopt preventive measures and seek medical attention if symptoms continue.
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