Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria: Rising Cases and fatalities

Strategic Insights -

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a significant increase in Lassa fever cases, with 6,640 suspected and 822 confirmed cases recorded in the past six months, resulting in 155 deaths. The case fatality rate (CFR) stands at 18.9 per cent, higher than the 17.1 per cent recorded during the same period in 2024. The outbreak has affected 21 states across 105 local government areas, with Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi accounting for 89 per cent of all confirmed cases.

Key Takeaways:

  • A total of 6,640 suspected and 822 confirmed cases of Lassa fever have been recorded in the past six months, with 155 deaths reported.
  • The case fatality rate (CFR) stands at 18.9 per cent, higher than the 17.1 per cent recorded during the same period in 2024.
  • 11 new confirmed cases were reported in two states (Ondo and Edo), with a total of 21 states reporting at least one confirmed case across 105 local government areas.
  • Five states; Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi, accounted for 89 per cent of all confirmed cases, with Ondo topping the list with 32 per cent of the total.
  • The most affected age group is 21-30 years, with patients ranging from one to 96 years old and a median age of 30.
  • The male-to-female ratio among confirmed cases is 1:0.8.
  • The National Lassa Fever Multi-Partner, Multi-Sectoral Technical Working Group (TWG) is coordinating response efforts at all levels.
  • The public is urged to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, and seek early medical attention for symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and general body weakness.

Statistics:

  • 6,640 suspected Lassa fever cases have been recorded in the past six months.
  • 822 confirmed Lassa fever cases have been recorded in the past six months.
  • 155 deaths have been reported due to Lassa fever in the past six months.
  • The case fatality rate (CFR) stands at 18.9 per cent.
  • 21 states have reported at least one confirmed case of Lassa fever.
  • 105 local government areas have been affected by the outbreak.
  • Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi account for 89 per cent of all confirmed cases.
  • Ondo has the highest number of confirmed cases, accounting for 32 per cent of the total.

Sources:

  • Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) Situation Report for Epidemiological Week 29 (Epi week 29)