The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 506 cases of Lassa fever and 95 deaths in the first eight weeks of 2025.
According to its epidemiological report for Week 8, new confirmed cases surged to 54 from 38 the previous week. These cases were reported in Bauchi, Ondo, Edo, Taraba, Ebonyi, Plateau, Benue, and Kogi states.
The case fatality rate (CFR) remains at 18.8%, unchanged from 2024. So far, confirmed cases have been recorded in 12 states, affecting 70 Local Government Areas.
Most Affected States
- Ondo: 32% of confirmed cases
- Bauchi: 24%
- Edo: 17%
These three states account for 73% of all cases, while the remaining 27% are spread across nine other states.
Lassa fever primarily affects individuals aged 21 to 30, with a median age of 30. The male-to-female ratio among confirmed cases is 1:0.8.
Healthcare and Response Efforts
While suspected cases have declined compared to the same period in 2024, one new healthcare worker was infected in Week 8, underscoring the risks faced by frontline medical personnel.
To contain the outbreak, the national Lassa fever multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System (IMS) has been activated to coordinate response efforts at all levels.
About Lassa Fever
Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents. It is endemic in Nigeria, with seasonal outbreaks primarily occurring during the dry season.
The NCDC continues to urge citizens to maintain proper hygiene and take necessary precautions to prevent further spread.