EDO STATE DECLARES DENGUE FEVER OUTBREAK, 86 CASES CONFIRMED — GOVT LAUNCHES EMERGENCY RESPONSE

The Edo State Government has officially declared an outbreak of dengue fever, raising alarm after confirming 86 cases across multiple local government areas.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, made the disclosure at a press briefing held in Benin City, the state capital, calling for urgent and collective action to curb the spread of the disease.

“We have confirmed 86 cases of dengue fever across several local government areas. While the number of deaths is still under verification, the trend is worrisome and calls for decisive, collective action,” Dr. Oshiomhole stated.

In addition to dengue, the commissioner provided an update on other ongoing public health concerns in the state. Edo has so far recorded:

• 137 Lassa Fever cases, with 24 deaths
• 2 confirmed Yellow Fever cases, with 1 death
• 8 Mpox cases
• 8 Diphtheria cases, with 3 deaths

To lead the dengue response effort, Dr. Ojeifo Stephenson, Director of Public Health, has been appointed as the Incident Manager, while the Emergency Operations Centre has been activated to coordinate all statewide interventions.

“The Ministry of Health is rolling out a comprehensive dengue response plan. This includes surveillance, case management, vector control, risk communication, and environmental sanitation across all affected LGAs,” Dr. Oshiomhole said.

How to Prevent Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which thrive in clean, stagnant water and are most active during early mornings and late afternoons.

Residents are urged to take the following preventive measures:

Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites:

• Empty and scrub containers like tires, buckets, flower pots, and drums weekly
• Clear clogged gutters and drains
• Properly maintain and cover swimming pools

Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites:

• Apply mosquito repellents (containing DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil)
• Wear long-sleeved clothing and socks, especially during dawn and dusk
• Sleep under mosquito nets, even during the day
• Install window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out

Dr. Oshiomhole emphasized that public cooperation is key in the fight against dengue fever, urging residents to remain calm and proactive.

“Government cannot do it alone. Your homes, your neighbourhoods, and your workplaces are frontline battlegrounds in this fight. To our healthcare workers, remain alert, report suspected cases, and educate patients,” he advised.

The state government says more public health messaging, community clean-up drives, and support for healthcare facilities are underway as part of the broader containment strategy.