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Epidemiology

Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria Worsens, Recording 162 Fatalities by August 2025

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

By the end of August 2025, Nigeria's Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) had reported a significant surge in Lassa fever cases, with 162 confirmed fatalities across 21 states. This alarming increase is attributed to late presentations, poor health-seeking behavior, and inadequate sanitation in affected communities. The NCDC has identified Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi states as the primary hotspots, accounting for 91% of confirmed cases. The agency has deployed rapid response teams and intensified surveillance to combat the outbreak.

Key Takeaways:

  • 162 confirmed fatalities were recorded across 21 states by the end of August 2025.
  • The most affected states are Ondo (33%), Bauchi (23%), Edo (18%), Taraba (14%), and Ebonyi (3%), which account for 91% of confirmed cases.
  • The demographic most affected is aged 21-30, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8.
  • Despite a lower overall case count compared to 2024, the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) remains high at 18.6%.
  • 7,375 suspected cases and 871 confirmed infections were recorded from January to August 2025.
  • The NCDC has deployed 10 rapid response teams, intensified surveillance, and provided medical resources to combat the outbreak.
  • The agency plans to unveil a five-year strategic plan (2025-2029) to control Lassa fever.
  • Residents, particularly in hotspot states, are urged to maintain proper hygiene, enhance rodent control, and seek early medical care to curb the disease's spread.

Statistics:

  • 162 confirmed fatalities recorded by the end of August 2025.
  • 10 new confirmed cases were reported in epidemiological week 35 (August 25-31).
  • 7,375 suspected cases and 871 confirmed infections were recorded from January to August 2025.
  • Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 18.6% recorded from January to August 2025.
  • 91% of confirmed cases were reported in Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi states.
  • 23 healthcare workers have been affected since January.
  • 10 rapid response teams were deployed by the NCDC to combat the outbreak.

Sources:

  • "NCDC reports 10 new cases of Lassa fever in epidemiological week 35 (August 25-31)". NCDC (no specific date mentioned).
  • "Lassa Fever: NCDC reports 162 deaths in 21 states as of August 2025". NCDC (no specific date mentioned).
  • "Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria: A Public Health Challenge". NCDC (no specific date mentioned).

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