Benue State Activates Rapid Response System to Combat COVID-19 Outbreak

Benue State has bolstered its defenses against a potential COVID-19 outbreak, prompted by recent developments in neighboring Cross River state, according to the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche.

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Dr. Ogwuche revealed that the state's proximity to Cross River, where a Chinese national was reportedly diagnosed with COVID-19, has put Benue on high alert, with the government taking proactive measures to prevent an outbreak.

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The state's Public Health Emergency Response Centres have been reactivated and are operating at full capacity, with all response pillars active and functional, Dr. Ogwuche noted, emphasizing that the state is fully prepared to respond to any emergency.

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Dr. Ogwuche stated that the state's teams are on standby to contain any threat, underscoring the government's commitment to being proactive in the face of potential health crises.

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Regarding Lassa Fever, Dr. Ogwuche reported that Benue has not recorded any new cases in the last four weeks, describing this development as a significant milestone in the fight against the disease.

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At present, there are no patients on admission, and all screenings conducted over the past four weeks have returned negative, Dr. Ogwuche said, highlighting the progress made in combating Lassa Fever.

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However, Dr. Ogwuche cautioned that sustained vigilance is necessary, given the 42-day incubation period, which remains a critical benchmark in determining whether the state can declare victory over the disease.

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If the state successfully navigates the 42-day window without a new case, it can be said that Lassa Fever has been vanquished in Benue, Dr. Ogwuche explained, attributing the progress made to coordinated efforts between the state government and health partners.

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The state government has collaborated with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to strengthen its response, Dr. Ogwuche noted, citing training, provision of protective equipment, and improved case management as key factors.

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The support from health partners has been invaluable, Dr. Ogwuche said, as the state has made significant strides in controlling Lassa Fever, prompting some supporting organisations to begin withdrawing from the state.

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Meanwhile, Dr. Ogwuche also highlighted the ongoing reforms in the Primary Healthcare Sector, revealing that the government is investing heavily in upgrading facilities across the state, with over 110 Primary Healthcare Centres currently being revitalised.

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The plan is to extend the upgrades to all 276 council wards, Dr. Ogwuche said, explaining that the renovations include improved infrastructure, solar-powered lighting, perimeter fencing, and the provision of essential medical supplies and personnel.

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While acknowledging that challenges still exist, Dr. Ogwuche maintained that the government is committed to addressing the gaps in the healthcare system, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that every community has access to quality healthcare services.

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To boost manpower and improve service delivery, additional health workers were recruited into the Primary Healthcare system towards the end of 2025, Dr. Ogwuche disclosed, highlighting the government's efforts to strengthen the state's healthcare infrastructure.