9 die in yellow fever outbreak in Edo
A total of nine persons have died in a yellow fever outbreak in Edo State, authorities confirm.
The disease broke out weeks ago and quickly spread to 10 LGAs.
Commissioner for Health in the state, Dr. David Osifo said on Wednesday that seven people who were affected in the epidemic died before they could be treated at the hospital. He said the victims were aged between 14 and 20 years.
“Already, nine persons have been reported dead so far since the epidemic was first reported,” Osifo said.
“We have recorded nine cases of yellow fever. The disease has spread to 10 LGA’s out of the 18 LGA’s in Edo State.
“Late arrival is the problem we have. We have informed the Honourable Minister of Health,” he said.
The commissioner said those affected must have missed regular vaccination exercises while they were infants.
Osifo promised that the government was on top of the matter and would provide more vaccines, as well as ensure timely response to suspected yellow fever cases.
