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Lassa fever

Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria Worsens, Hitting Young Adults and the Workforce

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A devastating surge in Lassa fever cases and deaths has been reported by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), with 822 confirmed cases and 155 deaths so far this year. The outbreak has concentrated in five states, with Ondo and Edo being the hardest hit, and is affecting predominantly young adults aged 21-30 years. The disease has also caused significant concern due to its high case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.9 percent, with a median age of 30 years and a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8. The National Lassa Fever Multi-Partner, Multi-Sectoral Technical Working Group (TWG) is leading response activities, but more needs to be done to contain the outbreak and prevent further deaths.

Key Takeaways:

  • 822 confirmed cases and 155 deaths have been reported in Nigeria due to Lassa fever in 2025.
  • The outbreak has concentrated in five states: Ondo (32%), Bauchi (23%), Edo (17%), Taraba (14%), and Ebonyi (3%).
  • 89% of all confirmed Lassa fever cases in 2025 have been reported in these five states.
  • The disease is predominantly affecting young adults aged 21-30 years, with an overall age range of 1-96 years and a median age of 30 years.
  • The case fatality rate (CFR) is 18.9 percent, an increase from the 17.1 percent recorded in 2024.
  • The male-to-female ratio for confirmed cases is 1:0.8.
  • The National Lassa Fever Multi-Partner, Multi-Sectoral Technical Working Group (TWG) is leading response activities, strengthening surveillance, and coordinating risk communication.
  • The outbreak is having a significant impact on the workforce and the economy of Nigeria.

Statistics:

  • 822 confirmed cases of Lassa fever in 2025 (as of July 20, 2025).
  • 155 deaths reported due to Lassa fever in 2025.
  • 89% of all confirmed Lassa fever cases in 2025 concentrated in five states: Ondo (32%), Bauchi (23%), Edo (17%), Taraba (14%), and Ebonyi (3%).
  • 18.9 percent case fatality rate (CFR).
  • 1:0.8 male-to-female ratio for confirmed cases.

Sources:

  • Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) Situation Report.
  • National Lassa Fever Multi-Partner, Multi-Sectoral Technical Working Group (TWG) reports.

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