To enhance the capacity of Ondo State to respond to lassa fever outbreaks, the International Research Center of Excellence (IRCE) at the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has collaborated with Nigerian Center for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Ondo State Ministry of Health to strengthen the capacity of the Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH) at Akure for Lassa fever diagnosis and management.
At the launch of the optimised laboratory in Ondo State, IHVN Epidemiology & Surveillance Manager for the SECURE-Nigeria Project, Mr. Saiki Adinoyi Musa explained that Ondo State has been a hotspot for Lassa fever outbreaks, contributing 32% of Nigeria’s confirmed cases in 2023. Akure South Local Government Area recorded the highest number of cases, underscoring the urgency of improved diagnostic and response measures.
“Previously, patient samples from IDH Akure had to be transported to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Owo, creating logistical challenges, delays in test results, and prolonged turnaround times that negatively impacted patient management. Recognizing these issues, the Ondo State Ministry of Health (SMoH) advocated for the optimization of the existing molecular laboratory at IDH.”
Mr. Saiki added that with support from IHVN implemented Strengthening Global Health Security Agenda in Nigeria (SECURE-Nigeria), the laboratory was optimized to conduct Lassa fever diagnostics, supportive tests, and enhance outbreak response mechanisms with funding from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention -Division for Global Health Protection (US-CDC DGHP),
“The facility received state-of-the-art equipment, including A BIOBASE Class III Biosafety Cabinet (Glove Box) and Hematology and Chemistry Auto Analyzers for supportive investigation. IHVN provided quality laboratory equipment commodities, alongside quality management training for laboratory scientists for accuracy and reliability in Lassa fever testing. We appreciate the government for providing an enabling environment for partners to collaborate with us.”
At the event, Ondo State Ministry of Health, Dr Adeniran Ikuomola said that the new laboratory and equipment would enable the state to detect cases of Lassa fever on time and in turn reduce the rate of fatality.
At the occasion, NCDC Director General Dr Jide Idris, who was represented by National Incident Manager for Lassa Fever Emergency Operation Center Dr Yetunde Abioye, said more effort will be made to ensure the laboratory’s continuous functionality.
