The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 152 deaths from Lassa fever within the first 28 weeks of 2025, signalling a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.7%, a rise from 17.3% recorded in the same period in 2024.
According to the agency’s latest situation report, published on Monday via its official website, 811 confirmed cases and over 6,520 suspected infections have been recorded across 21 states and 105 local government areas.
The worst-hit states remain Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi, which continue to bear the brunt of the outbreak.
“We are witnessing a slight decline in the total number of confirmed cases compared to 2024, but the fatality rate has increased,” the NCDC said, attributing the rise to late presentation, poor health-seeking behaviour, and limited access to early treatment.
Recent Data and Demographics
In epidemiological week 28 alone, 11 new confirmed cases and one death were reported, with infections traced to Ondo, Edo, and Benue states. No healthcare workers were affected during the reporting period.
The age group most affected remains individuals aged 21–30 years, with an almost equal male-to-female distribution of cases.
Government Response and Interventions
To combat the outbreak, the NCDC said it had ramped up efforts in collaboration with national and international partners:
10 National Rapid Response Teams have been deployed using a One Health approach.
INTEGRATE clinical trials have commenced in Ondo State to improve case management.
Targeted training of healthcare workers has been conducted in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue.
Community sensitisation and environmental hygiene campaigns are ongoing in collaboration with Nigeria Health Watch, WHO, Pro-Health International, IHVN, and others.
Additionally, the agency launched a new Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) e-learning platform supported by the Global Fund, alongside the distribution of critical medical supplies, including Ribavirin, PPEs, and disinfectants to states and treatment centres.
Persistent Challenges
Despite intensified control efforts, the NCDC cited several ongoing obstacles:
Late presentation of cases, contributing to rising fatalities.
Poor environmental sanitation, especially in high-risk areas.
Low public awareness in vulnerable communities.
High cost of treatment, discouraging early medical intervention.
The NCDC reiterated the importance of early detection, prompt treatment, and community engagement as key to reducing fatalities.
“The public is urged to avoid contact with rodents, maintain good hygiene, and report symptoms such as fever, headache, or bleeding to the nearest health facility immediately,” it said.
For inquiries or to report suspected cases, citizens are encouraged to call the NCDC toll-free line: 6232 and follow official public health advisories.
About Lassa Fever
Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness primarily transmitted through contact with the urine or faeces of infected rats. It can also spread via human-to-human transmission, especially through bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or medical equipment.
Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, vomiting, headache, muscle pain, and in severe cases, bleeding from body openings.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NCDC continues to monitor the situation and is urging Nigerians to remain vigilant as the country intensifies efforts to curb the outbreak.
