The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a drop in new Lassa fever cases for Epidemiological Week 9 (February 24 – March 2, 2025). Despite this, the fatality rate remains high at 18.7%, with 100 deaths recorded so far this year. According to the NCDC’s latest report, 29 new cases were confirmed in nine states, a significant decrease from the 54 cases reported in the previous week. The affected states are Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, Ebonyi, Plateau, Cross River, Nasarawa, and Enugu. Most confirmed cases came from three states: Ondo (31%), Bauchi (24%), and Edo (17%), highlighting these areas as the outbreak's epicentre.
The NCDC also confirmed that one healthcare worker was infected in Week 9, bringing the total number of infected health personnel this year to 17. This highlights the urgent need for better protective measures, including sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) and improved infection prevention protocols in hospitals.
Despite ongoing efforts, several challenges persist, such as: Late presentation of cases, contributing to higher death rates, Poor health-seeking behaviour due to treatment costs, Poor sanitation in high-risk areas, Limited public awareness about Lassa fever symptoms and prevention
To address these issues, the National Rapid Response Team (NRRT) has been sent to Gombe, Nasarawa, and Benue States to provide support. The NCDC has also intensified public awareness campaigns and trained healthcare workers in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue States to improve preparedness and case management.
The agency is working with global partners like the World Health Organisation (WHO), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and Georgetown Global Health Nigeria to improve surveillance and treatment outcomes.
While the number of Lassa fever cases in 2025 is lower than in 2024 (535 cases vs. 682 cases by Week 9), the fatality rate remains almost unchanged — 18.7% in 2025 compared to 18.8% in 2024.
Health experts stress that reducing Lassa fever deaths requires improved healthcare facilities, better disease surveillance, and stronger public awareness campaigns. They urge state governments, donor agencies, and community leaders to boost education efforts in affected regions.
Lassa fever is a viral disease spread through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents' urine, feces, or saliva. Human-to-human transmission can also occur, especially in healthcare settings with poor infection control.
The disease is common in Nigeria, especially during the dry season (October to May). Factors such as rodent infestations, poor sanitation, and low public awareness contribute to its spread.
Despite ongoing efforts to improve surveillance, treatment, and awareness, experts warn that Nigeria may continue to face deadly outbreaks without sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure and research.
