The Ebonyi Government announced on Thursday that it has recorded 394 suspected cases of Lassa Fever from January to December this year.

Of these, 48 cases were confirmed, resulting in 23 fatalities and 25 recoveries.

Governor Francis Nwifuru made this announcement in Abakaliki during the official sign-off and handover ceremony of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as “Doctors Without Borders,” regarding their Lassa Fever support activities to the state government.

“While we mourn those who have died, we commend Doctors Without Borders for saving the lives of those who survived the disease.

“The spread of this virus is believed to be exacerbated by sociocultural practices, poor health-seeking behaviours, inadequate environmental sanitation, and a lack of awareness and community engagement.

“We applaud the significant efforts of our international health ally and partner, MSF.

“The humanitarian achievements of this team in enhancing the health and well-being of our people are immense, and our government is deeply grateful to them.

“MSF officially became a health ally and partner to Ebonyi State through the state ministry of health in 2018, and since then, their dedication has been unwavering

“This year alone, Nigeria has reported over 4,726 cases of Lassa Fever, with a notably high fatality rate.

“In Ebonyi State, we have recorded 394 suspected cases since January, with 48 confirmed cases leading to 23 deaths and 25 recoveries.

“As governor, I am pleased with the proactive, relentless, and outstanding efforts you have made in our health sector since you arrived in 2018.

“I believe that, with your ongoing support, we will soon completely overcome the dangers posed by Lassa Fever, enabling us to respond more effectively to this serious threat,” he stated.

The governor urged the MSF leadership and its members to heed the sincere appeal from the state and continue their partnership for the sake of humanity.

He pledged to provide tangible support to achieve the goals set for eradicating Lassa Fever in Ebonyi State.

Earlier, Dr Allan Godfrey, MSF’s Field Coordinator in Ebonyi, thanked the governor for fostering an environment conducive to their humanitarian efforts.

Godfrey highlighted the success of their interventions in healthcare delivery in Ebonyi and emphasised the importance of sustainability.

“During our time in the state, we have constructed six health centres along with other initiatives,” he added.