The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), has reported 80 deaths in just one week, from 413 confirmed Lassa fever cases recorded across 11 states. The report, which covered the period from February 3 to 9, 2025 (Epidemiological Week 6), revealed a worrying increase in fatalities from the disease.
The NCDC noted that the case fatality rate (CFR) has risen to 19.4 percent, a jump from the 17.5 percent recorded in the same period last year. The majority of cases—73 percent—were detected in three states: Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi. Ondo accounted for the highest share at 34 percent, followed by Edo with 21 percent and Bauchi with 18 percent.
The report further stated that 63 local government areas in these 11 states have recorded confirmed cases. Despite a slight drop in new cases from 68 in the previous week to 54, the agency remains concerned about the high number of deaths.
NCDC also noted that the most affected age group is between 21 and 30 years, with the male-to-female ratio standing at 1:0.8. While no new infections were recorded among healthcare workers in the past week, delayed hospital visits have contributed significantly to the rising death toll.
The agency pointed to several challenges in controlling the outbreak, including poor health-seeking behavior, high treatment costs, and low awareness in high-risk areas. To combat the spread of the disease, the NCDC has activated the National Lassa Fever Multi-Sectoral Incident Management System, coordinating various response efforts.
Key measures taken include deploying National Rapid Response Teams (NRRT) to Gombe, Nasarawa, and Benue, as well as training healthcare workers in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue on proper case management. Surveillance and contact tracing have also been strengthened in affected states.
Additionally, essential supplies such as personal protective equipment (PPEs), Ribavirin (an antiviral drug), thermometers, and body bags have been distributed. Community awareness campaigns are also being intensified.
The NCDC stated that it is working closely with the World Health Organization (WHO), Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), and the International Research Centre of Excellence to enhance diagnosis, treatment, and outbreak control.
