Lassa Fever
By JOY ADARA, Abuja-
Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported 152 deaths from Lassa fever in the first 28 weeks of 2025, with a case fatality rate of 18.7%.
This marks an increase from the 17.3% recorded during the same period in 2024.
According to the NCDC’s latest situation report, 811 confirmed cases and over 6,520 suspected infections have been recorded across 21 states and 105 local government areas.
The NCDC noted that while there’s a slight decline in confirmed cases compared to 2024, the fatality rate has increased, likely due to late presentation, poor health-seeking behavior, and limited access to early treatment.
In week 28 alone, 11 new confirmed cases and one death were recorded, with reported infections from Ondo, Edo, and Benue states.
The NCDC has intensified interventions in high-burden areas, deploying 10 National Rapid Response Teams and launching INTEGRATE Clinical Trials in Ondo state to support improved case management. Healthcare workers in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue states have received targeted training to strengthen clinical response.
Despite these efforts, the NCDC highlights persistent challenges, including late presentation of cases, poor environmental sanitation, low awareness levels, and high treatment costs.
The agency stressed the need for community engagement, early detection, and prompt treatment to reduce fatalities.
The NCDC urged the public to maintain good hygiene and avoid contact with rodents and their secretions. They urged the public to report symptoms early and seek prompt medical care at designated treatment centers as well as to utilize the toll-free line 6232 for inquiries and follow NCDC advisories
The NCDC urged Nigerians to maintain hygiene, report symptoms early, and avoid contact with rodents to prevent the spread of Lassa fever.
