Dr. Salome Oboyi, a Senior Resident in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Bingham University Teaching Hospital (BHUTH) in Jos, has died after contracting Lassa fever from a patient she was treating, hospital authorities confirmed. Her death has sparked widespread grief within the medical community and renewed concern about infection risks for frontline health workers.
In a statement shared on the official X account of the Bingham University Alumni Doctors, the hospital described the loss as devastating. The statement read in full: “The entire BHUTH mourns. It is with a very heavy heart I announce the passing of a dearest colleague, Dr. Salome Oboyi, a Senior Resident in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in BHUTH whose sad event happened 2 days ago following a battle with Lassa fever.”
The post went on to highlight her professional dedication, affirming that she was remembered for her “dedication, professionalism, and selfless service” to patients. Colleagues said her commitment to patient care was unwavering, even in the face of serious occupational risk.
Plateau State health officials also commented on the broader public health situation. Nicholas Baamlong, Commissioner for Health, confirmed Plateau State’s awareness of the Lassa fever case and noted that additional cases have been recorded in the state. He said that the government had procured vaccines and would soon start a vaccination campaign, alongside intensified public education on prevention and control measures. “We are ramping up sensitisation campaigns to educate every resident on prevention and control of Lassa fever,” Baamlong stated, emphasising the need for informed community participation in curbing the spread of the disease.
The loss of Dr. Oboyi resonated beyond Plateau. Dr. Paul Ogwuche, Commissioner for Health and Human Services in neighbouring Benue State, paid tribute while announcing that state’s own Lassa fever outbreak response. Speaking to journalists in Makurdi, Ogwuche described her death as “a painful reminder of the risks faced daily by healthcare workers.” He added, “On behalf of the Government and people of Benue State, we extend our deepest condolences to her family, colleagues, and the medical communities of both Benue and Plateau States.”
Ogwuche stressed that the recent outbreak and the infections among health workers underscored the urgent need for strict adherence to Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in all health facilities. He urged communities to remain vigilant, observe hygiene practices, and seek early medical care if symptoms develop. “Lassa fever can spread from person to person, particularly in healthcare settings with inadequate infection control,” he warned, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness endemic in parts of West Africa, including Nigeria. It is primarily spread through contact with infected rodents or their excreta, and person‑to‑person transmission can occur, especially in healthcare environments without rigorous IPC protocols. The disease typically presents with symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, and diarrhoea, and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
