Nigeria has seen a surge in Lassa fever cases, with 54 new confirmed infections and six deaths recorded in a single week, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
The latest NCDC report, covering the period from 17 to 23 February, reveals that cases have been identified in eight states, including Bauchi, Ondo, and Edo. One healthcare worker was among those infected. This marks a significant increase from the 38 cases reported in the previous week.
For 2025 so far, the NCDC has confirmed 509 cases of Lassa fever, with 95 deaths across 12 states. The overall case fatality rate stands at 18.8%, mirroring the rate recorded for the same period last year.
While the number of suspected cases has decreased compared to 2024, the NCDC highlighted that the 21-30 age group is disproportionately affected. Notably, 73% of confirmed cases were concentrated in Ondo, Bauchi, and Edo states.
The NCDC cited several challenges in controlling the outbreak, including:
- Late presentation of cases, contributing to higher death rates.
- Financial barriers to treatment, leading to poor health-seeking behaviour.
- Inadequate sanitation in high-risk areas.
- Low public awareness about the disease.
Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness transmitted through contact with infected rodents or contaminated materials. Symptoms range from fever and headaches to severe bleeding
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