The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 214 cases of Lassa fever, with 39 deaths reported from December 30, 2024, to January 19, 2025. The cases have been spread across 43 local government areas in 10 states, including Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, and others.
The NCDC’s Lassa fever situation report highlighted 843 suspected cases, with a case fatality rate of 18.2%. Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states account for the majority of the confirmed cases, comprising 77% of the total cases, with Ondo alone reporting 38% of them.
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease primarily transmitted through the urine or feces of infected Mastomys rats, commonly found in parts of West Africa, including Nigeria. The World Health Organisation (WHO) also noted that human-to-human transmission can occur, especially in healthcare settings lacking adequate infection control measures.
In response to the outbreak, the NCDC has activated a multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System and deployed Rapid Response Teams to aid in control and management efforts. The predominant age group affected by the outbreak is 21-30 years.
Health authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if symptoms such as fever and bleeding occur, especially in areas with active outbreaks.
