A recent report from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has revealed a surge in Lassa fever cases across the country.
According to the report, 54 new confirmed infections and six deaths were recorded in just one week, spanning from February 17 to 23.
The affected states include Bauchi, Ondo, Edo, Taraba, Ebonyi, Plateau, Benue, and Kogi. Notably, one health worker was infected during the reporting week, highlighting the risks faced by frontline healthcare professionals.
The number of confirmed cases increased significantly from 38 in week seven to 54 in the reporting week.
As of 2025, the NCDC has recorded a total of 509 confirmed cases with 95 deaths across 70 local government areas (LGAs) in 12 states.
The Case Fatality Rate (CFR) stands at 18.8%, which is consistent with the same period in 2024. However, the number of suspected cases has decreased from 3,213 in 2024 to 2,492 in the current year.
The report further revealed that the age group 21-30 years is predominantly affected by the disease. Geographically, Ondo, Bauchi, and Edo states account for 73% of the confirmed cases, with Ondo alone responsible for 32%. The remaining 27% of cases were recorded in nine other states.
The NCDC has identified several challenges in the fight against Lassa fever, including late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behavior, and inadequate environmental sanitation. Additionally, the high cost of treatment and clinical management of Lassa fever has been a significant obstacle.
Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated food, household items, or infected rodents. Symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, and general body weakness, which can progress to severe bleeding in extreme cases.
As the NCDC continues to work towards controlling the outbreak, it is essential for Nigerians to remain vigilant and take preventive measures to avoid contracting the disease.
