By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Lassa Fever Spreads Across 21 States, 106 LGAs As Cases Rise To 906 In Nigeria
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a troubling rise in Lassa fever cases, with 168 deaths recorded across 21 states this year.
According to the agency’s latest situation report for epidemiological week 38, Nigeria has logged 4,543 suspected cases, out of which 897 were confirmed positive, bringing the case fatality rate to 18.7 per cent.
Ondo, Edo, Taraba, and Bauchi states remain the epicentres of the outbreak, jointly responsible for 67 per cent of confirmed infections. Ondo continues to bear the heaviest toll, followed closely by Edo and Bauchi.
Other affected states include Ebonyi, Benue, Kogi, Gombe, Plateau, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Enugu, Delta, Anambra, Rivers, Borno, Oyo, Ogun, the Federal Capital Territory, and Lagos.
The NCDC revealed that most victims fall within the 21 to 40 age bracket, an age group described as the nation’s most active and therefore more vulnerable to exposure.
Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic disease, is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items tainted by the urine or faeces of infected rats. Human-to-human transmission can also occur, particularly in health facilities that lack proper infection control measures.
Although cases typically surge during the dry season between December and April, infections have persisted year-round, signalling deeper public health concerns.
The NCDC warned that without stronger community awareness and preventive action, Lassa fever will continue to challenge Nigeria’s health system.
It noted that the current fatality rate of 18.7 per cent remains above the national goal of keeping deaths below 10 per cent. Some states, especially Taraba and Bauchi, recorded even higher mortality figures.
The agency stressed that early treatment greatly improves survival chances, as the antiviral drug ribavirin works best when administered promptly.
Ongoing interventions include enhanced surveillance, expanded diagnostic capacity, and support for treatment centres in high-burden areas. Community campaigns are also being intensified to promote hygiene, proper food storage, and the reduction of rodent contact.
The NCDC urged collaboration among states, communities, and health workers to curb the spread, advising Nigerians to keep their surroundings clean, store grains in sealed containers, and dispose of waste properly.
Despite progress in response efforts, the agency cautioned that Lassa fever remains an active threat, calling for sustained vigilance and early reporting of symptoms to save more lives.
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