The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a fresh warning as Lassa fever cases climb across the country. Over a three-week period, officials documented 66 confirmed infections and seven fatalities. The virus has currently reached 23 states and 111 Local Government Areas.
Data from epidemiological weeks 24 through 26 show a steady rise in activity. In week 24, health officials logged 13 cases, followed by 22 in week 25, and 31 in week 26. Collectively, this brings the yearly impact to 5,801 suspected cases and 868 confirmed infections, with a case fatality rate now at 24.9 percent. Most infections are concentrated in Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, Edo, and Benue states, which together represent 85 percent of all cases this year.
The NCDC links the rising death toll to delayed medical attention, limited public awareness, high treatment costs, and inadequate sanitation. One healthcare worker was infected recently, underscoring the risks to medical staff. In response, the agency has deployed rapid response teams, boosted laboratory diagnostics, and increased training for frontline workers.
Health authorities are urging citizens to prioritize environmental cleanliness, avoid contact with rodents, and seek professional care immediately if they experience persistent fever. Early medical intervention is vital for survival.
