An unknown illness has thrown many families in Kogi State into mourning and left health authorities with a puzzle to solve.

The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Saka Audu, told Channels Television that so far, 62 people have been killed by the illness which was initially thought to have been Lassa fever by many people.

This is because it has some symptoms that are similar to Lassa fever such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

The worst hit community is Okoloke in Yagba West Local Government Area of the state. Other areas are Okunran and Isanlu-Esa – both villages in Yagba West LGA.

With over 60 people dead and Lassa fever ruled out as a cause, the government has taken samples of the disease and is hoping to identify the illness as quickly as possible to prevent more deaths, according to the commissioner.