Ebonyi State is once again facing the shadow of Lassa fever. As new cases emerge, it is a timely moment to look back at the 2024 outbreak, when 48 people were confirmed infected and 23 lost their lives. This throwback is more than history—it is a reminder of lessons we cannot afford to forget.
Governor Francis Nwifuru’s report in 2024 sent a clear message: even in a state celebrated as the “Salt of the Nation,” preventable diseases can claim lives when awareness and hygiene practices fall short.
Lassa fever spreads primarily through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents. In 2024, common practices—such as drying grains in the open air and storing food without proper protection—created opportunities for infection. Early symptoms, often mistaken for malaria, led many to delay seeking medical care, giving the virus time to progress. Human-to-human transmission further amplified the risk, especially in homes and close-knit communities.
Despite the fatalities, 25 patients survived after timely treatment. Their recovery highlights a simple truth: Lassa fever is preventable and treatable when detected early. The 23 deaths serve as a stark warning that negligence, even in familiar routines, has consequences.
The current outbreak underscores why these lessons remain relevant. Public health awareness must reach every village, market, and household. Rodent control, proper food storage, and prompt hospital visits are not optional—they are essential. Ebonyi’s communal lifestyle, which strengthens bonds, must be paired with vigilance to prevent future outbreaks.
Reflecting on 2024 during today’s outbreak is not just about looking back; it is about acting before history repeats itself. Lassa fever is a silent threat, but it is not invincible. With knowledge, prevention, and early intervention, Ebonyi can protect its people and preserve the vitality of its communities.
For a state known for salt and preservation, safeguarding life must remain the highest priority.
On this History Thursday, we revisit stories that define our roots and affirm our identity. From past achievements to enduring legacies, these moments remind us that Ebonyi’s history is rich, resilient, and worth telling—again and again.
