The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has expressed concern over the increasing number of Lassa fever cases and fatalities, describing the situation as a significant public health risk.
The NCDC’s director-general, Dr. Jide Idris highlighted the alarming trend during a briefing with newsmen on Monday in Abuja.
Idris disclosed that 1,154 confirmed cases and 190 deaths have been recorded so far this year, representing a case fatality rate of over 13 per cent.
He added that 9,492 suspected cases have been documented across the country, with six states—Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Benue and Ebonyi—accounting for 89 per cent of confirmed infections.
Speaking on the trend, Idris noted that the last four weeks have seen a sharp rise in cases, underscoring the severity of the outbreak.
“This trend highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions in high-burden states and communities,” he said.
He explained that 10 local government areas (LGAs), including Owo, Etsako West, Esan West and Kirfi, account for nearly 59 per cent of confirmed cases. Ondo State alone represents 29.7 per cent of cases, followed by Edo at 22.7 per cent and Bauchi at 17.9 per cent.
In response to the outbreak, Idris announced that the NCDC has activated emergency operations at ‘Response Level 2’ to enhance coordination and management efforts.
“The agency has distributed critical medical supplies, infection prevention materials and diagnostic tools to affected states. Additionally, the number of Lassa fever testing laboratories has been increased from nine to 13 to improve diagnostics.
“Rodent control activities are ongoing in hotspot states, while heightened surveillance and public health messaging are being implemented to mitigate the outbreak,” he stated.
He emphasised that collaborative efforts with state governments, healthcare providers and community leaders are critical to reducing the impact of Lassa fever.
The NCDC has issued guidelines to the public to curb the spread of the virus.
“These include maintaining a clean environment, storing food properly and avoiding contact with rodent-infested areas,” Idris said, adding that early presentation at health facilities can significantly improve survival rates.
“Individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever, headache and general body weakness should seek medical attention promptly,” he advised.
Healthcare workers have also been urged to exercise caution and adhere to infection prevention protocols when handling suspected cases.
He warned that people living in rodent-infested areas, handling contaminated food, or preparing bushmeat are at heightened risk of infection.
Idris assured Nigerians of the NCDC’s commitment to protecting public health through proactive measures and continuous collaboration with stakeholders.
He called on citizens to adopt preventive practices and report suspected cases to health authorities immediately.
“We must work together to safeguard our communities. Lassa fever is preventable and with prompt action, we can reduce the number of cases and deaths,” he stated.
For further information, he advised Nigerians to contact the NCDC through its toll-free number (6232) or follow updates via its social media platforms.
Science Nigeria recalls that Lassa fever, identified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a pathogen with high potential for severe outbreaks, poses a growing threat as climate change puts an estimated 700 million people at risk.
Symptoms of the disease include fever, headache, muscle pain and, in severe cases, facial swelling and bleeding. Survivors often face long-term complications, such as deafness. As Nigeria battles the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak, public health experts have stressed the need for concerted efforts from both the government and the public to prevent further loss of lives.
