The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) has confirmed the recent detection of dengue fever cases, reassuring the public that the situation is under control and does not warrant panic.
In an official statement signed by Prof. Darlington E. Obaseki, Chief Medical Director of UBTH, the hospital emphasized that the confirmed cases reflect improvements in diagnostic capacity, not an outbreak. Thanks to enhanced laboratory infrastructure and the support of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), UBTH can now test for dengue fever for the first time in its history.
“There is no prior testing history for dengue in the region, so the current cases mark a diagnostic milestone—not necessarily a new public health crisis,” Prof. Obaseki noted.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which bites during daylight hours and breeds in clean, stagnant water. It is not contagious between humans and is not spread through air or casual contact.
Symptoms typically include Sudden high fever, Headache (especially behind the eyes), Joint and muscle pain, Skin rash and Nausea or vomiting
While most infections are mild and resolve with supportive care, severe cases—though rare—can involve internal bleeding or organ dysfunction. The hospital confirmed that with early diagnosis and proper treatment, survival rates exceed 99%.
UBTH advised the public to take preventive measures, including Eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, Using insecticide-treated nets and window screens, Wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent and Seeking prompt medical attention for unexplained fevers or body aches
The hospital confirmed that it is managing identified cases using WHO and NCDC-recommended protocols and is working closely with health authorities to monitor and contain the situation.
“We urge the public to rely only on verified health information and to support community-wide mosquito control efforts,” Prof. Obaseki stated. “The presence of dengue in our region is not new—our ability to detect it is.”
UBTH reaffirmed its readiness to respond effectively to emerging public health concerns and encouraged cooperation with health workers during community engagement and sensitization efforts.
