Health
Benue State Declares Lassa Fever Outbreak, Activates Emergency Response
By Felix Umande, Makurdi
The Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services has officially declared the outbreak of Lassa Fever following a noticeable rise in confirmed cases and recorded deaths across the state.
The declaration was made by the Honourable Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ejeh Ogwuche, in a press statement issued on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, in Makurdi. He disclosed that the current situation has necessitated urgent public health action to prevent further spread of the disease.
According to epidemiological data released by the Ministry, Benue State has recorded a total of 56 suspected cases of Lassa Fever. Eight of these cases have been confirmed by laboratory tests, with three deaths recorded among confirmed patients. and one additional probable death under investigation.
Dr. Ogwuche expressed particular worry over the impact of the outbreak on frontline health workers, noting that four healthcare professionals—three nurses and one community health worker—are among those affected. He also paid tribute to a Benue-born medical doctor who recently died of Lassa Fever while serving in Jos, Plateau State, describing the loss as a painful reminder of the risks faced daily by healthcare workers.
The Commissioner stressed the need for strict compliance with Infection Prevention and Control measures in all health facilities to protect both patients and medical personnel.
He explained that the state government’s response is driven by Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s deep concern for the health and wellbeing of the people of Benue State. He added that in line with this commitment, the government has activated the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre to coordinate surveillance, case management, contact tracing, and public sensitization efforts across all the 23 local government areas.
Members of the public have been urged to remain calm but vigilant. Health officials explained that Lassa Fever is mainly transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their urine and droppings, and can also spread from person to person, particularly in healthcare settings where infection control measures are inadequate.
Common symptoms of the disease include persistent high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, unexplained bleeding.
The Ministry of Health advised residents to maintain good environmental hygiene, properly store food to prevent rodent infestation, avoid self-medication, and seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if symptoms develop, noting that early detection and treatment significantly improve survival.
Suspected cases are to be reported promptly through the Benue State Lassa Fever emergency hotline on 0803-929-4999 or to the nearest Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer.
_Lenacapavir launch offers two-dose-a-year option for HIV protection
By Felix Umande, Makurdi
Bishop Murray Medical Centre in Makurdi has flagged off the public rollout of injectable PrEP Lenacapavir, introducing a long-acting HIV prevention option that requires just two doses per year.
The launch, held in the hospital’s conference room, brought together health officials, clergy, and community stakeholders to mark what officials described as a major advancement in HIV prevention services in Benue State.
Lenacapavir is a long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis designed to protect individuals at risk of HIV with biannual injections. Health experts say the option addresses adherence challenges faced by people who find daily oral tablets difficult to maintain.
Dr. John Ahom, who delivered the keynote lecture, explained how Lenacapavir works, its dosing schedule, eligibility criteria, and its potential to reduce barriers to consistent prevention.
“With Lenacapavir, we are moving closer to a future where HIV prevention fits into people’s lives, not the other way around,” Dr. Ahom said.
Rev. Fr. Paleve thanked the Ministry of Health, partners, and staff for their role in making the rollout possible, reaffirming the Church’s commitment to supporting efforts toward an HIV-free society.
The event drew senior figures from the Catholic Church and health sector, including Rev. Fr. Peter Paleve, Health Coordinator of Makurdi Diocese; Rev. Fr. Bernard Unande, Assistant Health Coordinator; Rev. Fr. Simon Friday Mfe, Chaplain of BMMC; Dr. Ngusuur Stella Haanongon, Clinical Mentor; Dr. Obatomi David, CHAI Consultant; and Ugbema Dooter Sonia, State PrEP Focal Person.
Hospital representatives said the introduction of injectable PrEP aligns with national and global targets to reduce new HIV infections by expanding prevention choices. Services at Bishop Murray Medical Centre will be provided free of charge, with confidentiality and dignity assured for eligible clients.
Officials encouraged members of the public at risk of HIV to visit the centre for counseling, screening, and enrollment into the PrEP program.
With the launch, Bishop Murray Medical Centre becomes one of the early adopters of Lenacapavir in Nigeria, positioning Benue State at the forefront of expanded HIV prevention options.
Health
Bishop Murray Medical Centre Receives New Injectable Hiv Prep Drug, Awaits FG’s Go-ahead For Rollout
… Drug hailed as “relief” for at-risk clients
By Felix Umande from Makurdi
Bishop Murray Medical Centre, Makurdi on Monday took delivery of a consignment of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), in what health officials describe as a major boost to HIV prevention efforts in Benue State.
The Centre, however, says it will not commence rollout of the drug until it receives formal authorization from the Federal Government.
Unlike the current daily oral PrEP, Lenacapavir is administered as an injection once every six months, after initial starting doses. It is designed strictly for HIV-negative individuals assessed to be at substantial risk of contracting the virus.
Receiving the consignment, the Health Coordinator of the Centre, Rev. Fr. Peter Paleve, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for the intervention, describing the drug as “a relief for many.”
“For many of our clients who struggle with daily medication, this long-acting option is a relief and will encourage more people to stay protected,” Fr. Paleve said.
Despite the arrival of the drug, management confirmed it has been directed by federal authorities to await further instructions before administering on clients.
“We have received the drugs, but we will not begin usage until we are officially authorized. We urge members of the public who may be eligible to remain patient while we await the go-ahead,” Fr. Paleve stated.
He assured that the Centre will comply fully with all protocols from the Federal Ministry of Health and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA).
What You Should Know About Lenacapavir PrEP:
Eligibility : Only persons who have tested HIV-negative and are clinically assessed as being at risk of HIV infection.
Dosage : Given as an injection once every six months after initial doses, making it one of the longest-acting PrEP options available.
Purpose: PrEP is strictly for prevention. It does not treat HIV and must not be used by persons who are HIV-positive.
Bishop Murray Medical Centre, a faith-based hospital under the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, is a key provider of HIV testing, counseling, and prevention services in Benue State.
The facility is to commence public sensitization and client enrollment immediately the Federal Government issues approval for rollout.
1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Many people think it’s just “normal burning” or “not drinking enough water.”
But untreated UTIscan travel upward and damage the kidneys.
Watch for:
Burning when urinating
Frequent urge to pee
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Lower abdominal pain
What to do:
Drink enough water early, don’t hold urine, and treat infections immediately.
2. Helicobacter pylori (Stomach Ulcer)
Helicobacter pylori quietly lives in the stomach and damages its lining.
Most people ignore it as “just ulcer” or “normal stomach pain.”
Watch for:
Burning stomach pain
Bloating
Frequent belching
Nausea
If ignored, it can lead to ulcers and even stomach cancer.
3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Infections like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea can stay silent for a long time.
Many people feel fine… but damage is happening inside.
Watch for:
Unusual discharge
Pain during urination or sex
Lower abdominal pain
If ignored, they can lead to infertility.
4. Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis is not just a “cough.”
It develops slowly and is often mistaken for a stubborn cold.
Watch for:
Cough lasting more than 2–3 weeks
Weight loss
Night sweats
Chest pain
If ignored, it can severely damage the lungs and spread to others.
5. Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B silently attacks the liver.
Most people don’t know they have it until serious damage is done.
Watch for:
Fatigue
Yellowing of the eyes or skin
Dark urine
Abdominal discomfort
If untreated, it can lead to liver failure or cancer.
Your body whispers before it screams.
Don’t ignore small symptoms.
Test early. Treat early. Stay alive.
Tracie +234 805 736 5336
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