The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 895 confirmed cases of Lassa fever across 21 states and 106 local government areas, resulting in 166 deaths between January and September 2025.
This represents a case fatality rate of 18.5%, higher than the 16.9% reported during the same period in 2024.
The majority of infections, about 90%, have come from Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi states. Ondo alone is responsible for a third of infections, underscoring the persistent burden of the disease in those regions. According to the NCDC, poor environmental sanitation, weak awareness in high-burden communities, and delayed treatment fuel the spread and severity of the disease.
The NCDC has deployed 10 rapid response teams to affected states, launched new infection prevention and control training modules, and supported clinical management fellowship programs. The agency urges states to intensify community engagement and preventive campaigns, emphasizing the importance of rodent control, food storage in sealed containers, environmental sanitation, and early medical consultation for symptoms.
Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, transmitted primarily through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or feces. Symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, chest pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and unexplained bleeding. Avoiding contact with rodents, proper food storage, and seeking early medical attention can help prevent the spread of the disease.
The NCDC has also advised healthcare workers to maintain high suspicion and initiate early treatment when symptoms appear. The agency’s efforts aim to strengthen outbreak control and reduce the transmission of the disease. As the outbreak evolves, the NCDC has assured the public of its commitment to curbing further spread and reducing fatalities.
With the current case fatality rate standing at 18.5%, the NCDC emphasizes the need for greater public awareness, improved hygiene practices, and faster response from both state governments and local authorities. By working together, the agency believes it’s possible to contain the outbreak and prevent further deaths.
