Edo State Announces Dengue Fever Outbreak, Confirms 86 Cases

 Edo State has declared a dengue fever outbreak, confirming 86 cases across 10 local government areas as of July 5, 2025, prompting an urgent public health response. 

The State Ministry of Health, led by Commissioner Samuel Alli, reported the first cases in Etsako West on June 20, with symptoms including high fever, joint pain, and rash spreading to Benin City and Akoko-Edo. Laboratory tests at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital identified the Aedes mosquito as the vector, with 5 deaths linked to delayed treatment, raising the case fatality rate to 5.8%.

The outbreak, the worst since 2018’s 50 cases, coincides with a 30% increase in rainfall, creating breeding grounds. The government has deployed 200 health workers, 50 fumigation teams, and 10,000 insecticide-treated nets, targeting a 70% reduction in mosquito populations by July 15. 

Residents, numbering 4 million, face a 40% water shortage, exacerbating the crisis, with 60% demanding better sanitation. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has pledged $1 million in aid, while experts warn of a potential 200-case surge if unchecked, with schools closing in affected areas until July 12.