The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in Nigeria, in collaboration with the West African Health Organisation (WAHO) and supported by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), said it will host the inaugural meeting of the Lassa Coalition Governing Entity (LGE) on January 16, 2024.
This significant meeting is poised to be a crucial step toward addressing the ongoing threat of Lassa fever within the West African region.
This important information was disclosed in a joint statement released to journalists on Wednesday. The formation of the LGE is designed to provide strategic leadership and governance for the newly established Lassa Coalition, which aims to build upon existing regional and national health efforts. The coalition’s primary focus areas will include vaccine research, community engagement and sustainable manufacturing methods to ensure those most affected by Lassa fever can access effective vaccines.
The high-level meeting next month will launch a groundbreaking regional initiative aimed at enhancing public health systems and accelerating vaccine development processes. Furthermore, the initiative seeks to guarantee equitable access to life-saving solutions that combat Lassa fever, a substantial public health challenge prevalent across the region.
In the joint statement, Nigeria’s Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate described the coalition as an essential step towards bolstering health security and advancing innovation in healthcare. He stated, “The fight against Lassa fever reflects our shared commitment to health security and equitable access to life-saving solutions. This coalition strengthens public health systems, fosters innovation and builds a resilient future for our region.”
CEO of CEPI, Dr. Richard Hatchett underscored the coalition’s significance in hastening progress. He noted, “Having plagued West Africa for decades, Lassa fever has long been one of the most neglected diseases. However, significant advances in vaccine research are beginning to change that narrative.” His remarks highlight a growing recognition of the need to prioritise the development of interventions for this neglected viral disease.
The coalition aims to prioritise ownership of Lassa fever control efforts at both the regional and national levels, focusing on sustainable health solutions throughout 2025. A secretariat housed at WAHO will lead policy research and coordinate regional strategies, ensuring that efforts to combat Lassa fever are rooted in local healthcare systems and community needs.
First identified in 1969 in Lassa village, Nigeria, Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease caused by the Lassa virus. Transmission to humans primarily occurs through food or household items contaminated by the urine or faeces of infected multiple-mammate (mastomys) rats, a rodent species common in West Africa. Human-to-human transmission can also occur, especially in healthcare settings where infection control measures are inadequate.
Lassa fever infects hundreds of thousands of individuals each year across the region, causing various symptoms such as fever, vomiting and, in severe cases, bleeding. One of the most alarming complications of the disease is hearing loss, which affects approximately 25 per cent of those who survive. While fatality rates are estimated at around 1 per cent, mortality can increase significantly during outbreaks, particularly affecting pregnant women and healthcare workers.
Despite having a notable health impact on populations, Lassa fever has remained categorised as one of the most neglected diseases, with limited resources allocated for prevention and treatment initiatives. Currently, there are no licensed vaccines available for Lassa fever, although about 20 candidates are in various stages of development, with the most advanced candidates undergoing ‘Phase 2A’ clinical trials.
The Lassa Coalition Governing Entity comprises health ministers from Nigeria, Benin, Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, along with representatives from WAHO, CEPI and the World Health Organisation (WHO). The coalition will develop a roadmap for 2025 that includes evaluating vaccine demand, designing clinical trials and establishing equitable vaccine access strategies.
The formation of the coalition marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against one of West Africa’s most persistent health challenges. By fostering collaboration, innovation and sustainability across the region, the coalition aims to transform the approach to Lassa fever and secure a healthier future for its populations, ultimately reinforcing health systems that can adequately respond to infectious disease threats.
