The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has recorded 172 deaths from Lassa fever in 21 states, with a rising Case Fatality Rate of 18.6% compared to 17% during the same period in 2024. The latest report for Week 40 (Sept. 29–Oct. 5) shows 924 confirmed cases and over 8,000 suspected ones spanning 106 Local Government Areas.
Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi states account for 90% of confirmed cases, with Ondo alone responsible for 35%. The most affected age group is 21 to 30 years old, with a slight male predominance. Challenges driving the high fatality include late hospital visits, poor sanitation, and low awareness. NCDC has deployed rapid response teams and is running training and public campaigns to curb the spread and improve early detection.
Lassa fever, which peaks during the dry season, spreads mainly via contact with infected rodents or contaminated household items, and can transmit person-to-person mainly in hospitals without strict controls. Timely treatment and strong community engagement are crucial to reducing deaths.
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