The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported a surge in Lassa fever cases for the 26th epidemiological week of 2026. Data shows 31 new infections, an increase from the 22 cases observed the previous week.
Latest figures released by the agency identify Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, and Benue as the states where the new cases occurred. Total fatalities for 2026 have now reached 221, reflecting a 24.0 percent Case Fatality Rate, which is notably higher than the 18.7 percent recorded in 2025.
The virus has reached 111 Local Government Areas across 23 states. The majority of infections, specifically 85 percent, are concentrated in Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, Edo, and Benue. Ondo currently leads with 30 percent of total cases, followed by Bauchi at 26 percent.
While individuals aged 21 to 30 are the primary demographic affected, patients range in age from one to 93 years. Data indicates an almost equal gender distribution among those infected. Public health officials also reported one new infection involving a healthcare worker during this period. The National Lassa Fever multi-partner Incident Management System continues to manage the ongoing response through surveillance and targeted outreach.
