Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria: Rising Death Toll and Fatality Rate

Strategic Insights -

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a significant increase in Lassa fever cases and fatalities in 2025. According to the latest situation report, a total of 159 lives have been lost to the disease, with a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 18.6 percent. This is a stark contrast to the 17.2 percent CFR recorded in the same period in 2024. The five most affected states, Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi, account for 90 percent of all confirmed cases, with Ondo leading the pack with 33 percent.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NCDC has recorded a total of 854 confirmed cases across 21 states and 106 Local Government Areas in the country.
  • The five most affected states, Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi, account for 90 percent of all confirmed cases, with Ondo leading the pack with 33 percent.
  • The most affected age group remains 21-30 years, with a median age of 30.
  • The male-to-female ratio for confirmed cases stands at 1:0.8.
  • The NCDC has implemented several response measures, including the distribution of thermometers, After-Action Reviews (AARs), clinician sensitisation, and capacity-building workshops on risk communication and community engagement.
  • The agency has also launched the NCDC's Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) e-learning platform and distributed personal protective equipment and medical commodities.
  • Despite these efforts, many patients still present late to health facilities, driven by poor health-seeking behavior, high cost of treatment, and limited awareness of Lassa fever prevention measures.
  • The NCDC has urged state authorities to strengthen community engagement on prevention and awareness while encouraging healthcare workers to maintain a high index of suspicion for Lassa fever.

Statistics:

  • 159 lives lost to Lassa fever in 2025.
  • Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 18.6 percent.
  • Total of 854 confirmed cases reported across 21 states and 106 Local Government Areas.
  • 90 percent of confirmed cases from Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi states.
  • 33 percent of confirmed cases from Ondo State.
  • 23 percent of confirmed cases from Bauchi State.
  • 17 percent of confirmed cases from Edo State.
  • 14 percent of confirmed cases from Taraba State.
  • 3 percent of confirmed cases from Ebonyi State.

Sources:

  • NCDC situation report covering epidemiological week 33.
  • Premium Times, 2025.
  • AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com).