Lassa Fever: NCDC Alerts Nigerians As Cases, Death Surge

Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised the alarm over an escalating Lassa fever outbreak, with 1,154 confirmed cases and 190 deaths recorded so far this year.

Director-General of NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, who disclosed this at press briefing on Monday in Abuja, said that the surge in cases, predominantly from six states, highlights the urgency of preventive measures and timely medical intervention.

Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus, is transmitted primarily through contact with infected multimammate rats or contaminated objects and food. Human-to-human transmission can also occur through contact with the body fluids of infected individuals.

Dr. Jide said that in 2024, six states: Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Benue, and Ebonyi accounted for 89 percent of confirmed cases, with the highest concentration in Ondo (29.7%).

The outbreak’s severity is underscored by a high case fatality rate exceeding 13 percent and a notable increase in suspected cases compared to 2023, said Dr. Jide, adding that while improved surveillance partly explains the rise in numbers, the persistence of cases in endemic areas signals the need for urgent action.

The DG said that the Individuals at the highest risk include those living in rat-infested environments, consuming contaminated food, or providing care to infected persons without proper precautions.

Dr. Jide urged healthcare workers to maintain high vigilance, use personal protective equipment, and report suspected cases promptly for timely intervention.

He emphasises that early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve survival rates.