A doctor has died from Lassa fever in Benue State, deepening concerns about the viral disease's resurgence in the region. Dr Vitalis Tersoo Azever, who worked with APIN Public Health Initiatives in Konshisha Local Government Area, passed away at Jos University Teaching Hospital after a prolonged battle with the illness.
Azever's death marks a grim milestone for Benue's medical community. It came just two days after another young physician, Dr Cedric Tyoor Kondom, died at the same facility from bone marrow failure.
State Commissioner of Health Dr Paul Ogwuche confirmed the case to reporters in Makurdi on Monday. He disclosed that contact and case tracing efforts have begun immediately.
According to Ogwuche, Azever struggled with the illness for more than two weeks before succumbing to complications. The state had been on the verge of declaring the outbreak contained when this fresh case emerged.
Ogwuche noted that the doctor initially managed his condition at home and a private facility. When symptoms persisted, a friend suggested he might have Lassa fever and arranged informal testing.
"The test came back positive," Ogwuche explained to journalists. Against medical advice, Azever initially insisted on home treatment and injections rather than hospital admission.
Health officials eventually convinced him to seek proper care at Benue State University Teaching Hospital. Tests revealed his kidneys had already sustained damage from the virus.
His condition deteriorated rapidly. He was transferred to Jos University Teaching Hospital where he died on Saturday, June 20, 2026.
Azever hailed from Kwande Local Government Area but had been working in Konshisha. His body was buried on the same Saturday.
The commissioner emphasized that no other patients are currently hospitalized with Lassa fever across Benue's facilities. Emergency response measures have been activated to prevent further spread.
Ogwuche said surveillance has been heightened at all state health facilities. The ministry is also intensifying community awareness campaigns to catch cases early.
"We're engaging churches, mosques, and traditional rulers," he told reporters. These community leaders will help spread prevention messages in their areas.
The ministry has stepped up media engagement as well. Officials are working to ensure residents understand symptoms and know when to seek medical attention.
Ogwuche stressed that prompt hospital admission remains critical for Lassa fever patients. Delays in treatment dramatically worsen survival chances, he cautioned.
Benue has battled multiple Lassa fever outbreaks in recent years. The virus spreads through contact with infected persons or contaminated materials.
Health authorities are urging residents to report suspected cases immediately. Early detection and isolation can prevent transmission to healthcare workers and family members.
