By JOY ADARA, Abuja-
Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has called on state governments to intensify year-round community outreach to combat the rising tide of Lassa fever cases across the country.
In its latest epidemiological report for week 31, the NCDC reported nine new confirmed cases in Ondo, Edo, and Taraba states, a sharp increase from the three cases recorded the previous week.
“This brings the total confirmed cases to 836 across 21 states and 105 local government areas,” the agency stated, noting a case fatality rate of 18.7%, compared to 17.3% for the same period in 2024.
The NCDC confirmed 156 deaths from Lassa fever in 2025.
The report highlighted that 90% of cases were concentrated in five states: Ondo (33%), Bauchi (23%), Edo (17%), Taraba (14%), and Ebonyi (3%).
The 21–30 age group was the most affected, with a higher incidence among men than women.
No new healthcare worker infections were reported during the week, a positive note amidst ongoing challenges.
The NCDC identified key issues, including “late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behaviour due to high treatment costs, and inadequate environmental sanitation in high-burden communities.”
To address the outbreak, the agency has deployed rapid response teams, initiated training and fellowship programs, and integrated Lassa fever messaging into broader risk communication strategies. Essential supplies, such as ribavirin, personal protective equipment, and thermometers, have been distributed to affected states.
The NCDC urged healthcare workers to remain vigilant and ensure prompt referrals, while advising the public to enhance sanitation practices and avoid contact with rodents, the primary vector for the disease.
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness spread mainly through contact with infected rat urine or feces. It can also transmit between humans via bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or medical equipment. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, and, in severe cases, bleeding from body orifices, as noted by medical experts.
