Lassa Fever in Kano: One New Case Confirmed as Over 20 Health Workers Test Negative

In a recent update from Kano State, health authorities have confirmed one new case of Lassa fever, involving a male adult who is now receiving care under the supervision of the Kano State Epidemiology Unit.

The patient, who happens to be the husband of the late 22-year-old pregnant woman—the initial index case—was the only individual to test positive among more than 20 health workers who had close contact with her at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH). The woman had died shortly after arriving at the hospital’s gynecology emergency unit.

Fortunately, all health personnel exposed to the case have now tested negative and been discharged from isolation. This includes both direct caregivers and others identified through thorough contact tracing.

Speaking to the press, Maryam Aminu Usman, the Chief Information Officer at AKTH, praised the swift response and professionalism of the hospital’s staff.
“More than 20 health personnel who had direct contact with the index case have tested negative. Others identified through contact tracing also tested negative, except the husband of the patient,” she stated.

She noted that the hospital moved quickly after confirming the index case on April 5, 2025, taking strong precautionary steps to prevent a possible outbreak.

Kano State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, shared further updates with NIGPOST, explaining that the state’s Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has deployed a Rapid Response Team.
“So far, four cases have been recorded—one resulting in death, while three others are under observation despite negative lab results,” he said.

The state government has also provided AKTH with essential medical supplies, including antiviral medications like Ribavirin, personal protective equipment (PPEs), and thermometers.

The response team has also extended its surveillance to Kura General Hospital and the woman’s primary contact in Garun Mallam, who is currently isolated and awaiting test results.

Health officials will continue monitoring all contacts over the next two weeks to ensure the virus doesn’t spread further.

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