A recent Lassa fever outbreak in Benue State has resulted in the death of Dr. Vitalis Tersoo Azever, an employee of APIN Public Health Initiatives in the Konshisha Local Government Area. The physician passed away at Jos University Teaching Hospital in Plateau State after struggling with complications from the virus.
Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services in Benue, confirmed that the state has initiated contact tracing and expanded public awareness efforts. The ministry had previously anticipated declaring the state free of the virus after a 42-day incubation period, but this new case has reset that timeline. Medical investigations indicated the doctor had treated his symptoms privately for two weeks before the diagnosis was confirmed, by which time his kidneys were already compromised.
This loss occurred just two days after the death of Dr. Cedric Tyoor Kondom at the same hospital, compounding the grief felt by the local medical community. Dr. Msonter Anzaa, leader of the Moses Orshio Adasu University Medical Alumni Association, expressed profound sadness over the loss of both colleagues. In response to these events, the association has implemented a seven-day mourning period and established an annual week of remembrance.
While no other patients are currently hospitalized with the virus in Benue, health officials continue to maintain high levels of surveillance. The state government facilitated a safe burial for Dr. Azever in his home region of Kwande, as authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report potential symptoms immediately.
