Lassa Fever Outbreak Claims 168 Lives Across 21 Nigerian States

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported that Lassa fever has resulted in 168 fatalities across 21 states in 2025. According to the agency’s situation report for epidemiological week 38, there have been a total of 4,543 suspected cases, with 897 confirmed positive, leading to a case fatality rate of 18.7 percent.

Current Status of the Outbreak

The NCDC has identified four states—Ondo, Edo, Taraba, and Bauchi—as the epicentres of the outbreak, accounting for 67 percent of all confirmed cases. Ondo State has recorded the highest burden, followed closely by Edo and Bauchi. Other states affected include Ebonyi, Benue, Kogi, Gombe, Plateau, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Enugu, Delta, Anambra, Rivers, Borno, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, and the Federal Capital Territory.

The report indicates that most confirmed cases are among individuals aged 21 to 40, highlighting the demographic that is socially and economically active, thus increasing their exposure to this rodent-borne disease. Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by the urine or faeces of infected rats. Human-to-human transmission is also possible, especially in healthcare settings lacking proper infection control measures.

Public Health Response and Recommendations

Cases of Lassa fever typically peak during the dry season, from December to April, but infections have persisted throughout the year. The NCDC has expressed concerns that without enhanced community awareness and effective control measures, Lassa fever will continue to pose a significant public health challenge. The current case fatality rate exceeds the national target of 10 percent, with some states like Taraba and Bauchi reporting even higher rates.

The NCDC emphasizes the importance of early medical intervention, stating that timely presentation at treatment centres significantly improves survival chances. The antiviral medication ribavirin is most effective when administered promptly.

In response to the outbreak, the NCDC is coordinating various efforts to enhance surveillance, expand diagnostic capabilities, and support treatment centres in high-burden states. They are also promoting community sensitisation campaigns to foster preventive practices, such as proper food storage, maintaining environmental hygiene, and avoiding self-medication.

The agency calls for stronger collaboration among states, communities, and healthcare workers to effectively curb the spread of Lassa fever. Citizens are urged to securely store food, cover household waste, and minimize contact with rodents, the primary carriers of the virus.

As the outbreak continues, the NCDC remains committed to its response efforts, aiming to protect public health and reduce the impact of Lassa fever across Nigeria.