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Epidemiology

Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria: 168 Deaths Recorded Across 21 States

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed that Lassa fever has claimed 168 lives across 21 states in 2025. The agency reported a total of 4,543 suspected cases, of which 897 were confirmed positive, with a case fatality rate of 18.7 per cent. Four states - Ondo, Edo, Taraba, and Bauchi- remain the epicentres of the outbreak, accounting for 67 per cent of all confirmed cases.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NCDC has confirmed 168 deaths from Lassa fever across 21 states in 2025, with a case fatality rate of 18.7 per cent.
  • Four states - Ondo, Edo, Taraba, and Bauchi - are the epicentres of the outbreak, accounting for 67 per cent of all confirmed cases.
  • Ondo State alone has recorded the highest burden of confirmed cases, followed by Edo and Bauchi states.
  • The majority of confirmed cases were among people aged 21 to 40, with both men and women affected.
  • The NCDC has warned that without stronger community awareness and control measures, the disease will remain a persistent public health challenge.
  • Nigeria's current case fatality rate of 18.7 per cent remains above the national target of below 10 per cent.
  • Early presentation at treatment centres significantly improves chances of survival, as ribavirin, an antiviral medicine, is more effective when administered promptly.
  • The NCDC is coordinating response efforts, including enhancing surveillance, expanding diagnostic capacity, and supporting treatment centres in high-burden states.
  • Community sensitisation campaigns are ongoing to promote preventive practices such as proper food storage, environmental hygiene, and avoiding self-medication.

Statistics:

  • 168 deaths due to Lassa fever recorded across 21 states in 2025
  • 4,543 suspected cases reported, with 897 confirmed positive
  • 18.7 per cent case fatality rate
  • 67 per cent of confirmed cases in Ondo, Edo, Taraba, and Bauchi states
  • 21 states affected by the outbreak
  • Majority of confirmed cases among people aged 21 to 40
  • Nigeria's current case fatality rate above national target of below 10 per cent

Sources:

  • ThisDay (2025) - "NCDC Reports 168 Deaths, 4,543 Suspected Cases of Lassa Fever in 21 States"

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