BY MONDAY OISE
BENIN CITY- The Edo State Government has refuted media reports alleging that the state government is not doing enough in eradicating the spread of Lassa Fever in the state.
The Director of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Edo State,Dr Ojeifo Stephenson during a press conference in Benin City, said that the state government is not only concentrating on checking the spread of lassa fever, but also eradicating the carrier (rat).
According to Dr Ojeifo, the present administration has immensely supported the ministry with timely release of funds to tackle the spread of lassa fever, adding that the Edo State government is not taking health issues lightly.
He urged Edo people not to panic, but to be vigilant and report any suspected case of prolonged fever, emphasizing that testing and treatment for lassa fever is free.
While noting that Etsako West, Esan East and Esan West are the three hotspot local government areas, the director noted that the state government has put measures in place to halt the spread of lassa fever in the localities with the help of a very efficient surveillance team.
The director warned that any clinician or private hospital caught managing lassa fever patients, instead of referring them to Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, the only accredited health facility to handle such cases would be closed down.
On Mpox cases in the State, Dr Ojeifo said that eleven suspected cases have so far been recorded, with five positives that were treated and reunited with their families.
He however advised journalists to verify information on health issues before publishing or going on air.
