NCDC REPORTS 166 LASSA FEVER DEATHS IN NIGERIA, CASE FATALITY RATE RISES TO 18.5%

Despite fewer cases, delayed treatment and poor health-seeking fuel more fatalities, especially in five key states.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed 166 deaths from Lassa fever between January and September 2025, with a fatality rate of 18.5%, up from 16.9% in the same period of 2024. A total of 895 confirmed cases were reported across 21 states, mostly in Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi, which account for 90% of infections. Late presentation, high treatment costs, and poor environmental sanitation worsen outcomes. NCDC has deployed rapid response teams, enhanced infection control training, and urged early treatment to curb the spread and save lives.