NCDC Raises Alarm Over Rising Lassa Fever Cases and Fatalities
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised alarms over the increasing number of Lassa fever cases and fatalities in the country. According to NCDC Director-General, Jide Idris, there have been 1,154 confirmed cases and 190 deaths recorded this year, which translates to a case fatality rate of over 13 percent. The agency has also documented 9,492 suspected cases across Nigeria, with six states—Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Benue, and Ebonyi—accounting for 89 percent of the confirmed infections.
Idris highlighted the sharp rise in cases over the last four weeks, pointing to the severity of the outbreak. He emphasized the urgent need for targeted interventions in high-burden states and communities.
Notably, 10 local government areas, including Owo, Etsako West, Esan West, and Kirfi, account for nearly 59 percent of the confirmed cases. Ondo State alone represents 29.7 percent, followed by Edo at 22.7 percent and Bauchi at 17.9 percent.
In response to the outbreak, the NCDC has activated Emergency Operations at Response Level 2 to improve coordination and management. The agency has distributed essential medical supplies, infection prevention materials, and diagnostic tools to affected states. To improve diagnostic capabilities, the number of Lassa fever testing laboratories has been expanded from nine to 13. Rodent control activities are also being carried out in hotspot states and heightened surveillance and public health messaging are being implemented to mitigate the outbreak.
Idris stressed the importance of early medical intervention, noting that individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever, headache, and general body weakness should seek prompt medical attention to improve survival rates. Healthcare workers have been urged to adhere strictly to infection prevention protocols when handling suspected cases. The NCDC also reminded citizens living in rodent-infested areas or handling contaminated food and bushmeat to take extra precautions. The agency remains committed to protecting public health through proactive measures and ongoing collaboration with state governments, healthcare providers, and community leaders.
