The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 674 cases of Lassa fever out of 4,025 suspected cases across 93 local government areas in 18 states, with the death toll now at 127.
The figures, contained in the NCDC’s latest situation report covering January 1 to April 6, 2025, indicate a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 18.8 per cent.
Taraba and Ondo states recorded the highest number of fatalities with 31 and 26 deaths respectively. On the other hand, Cross River and Ogun reported the lowest with one death each.
Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, which is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents, particularly the multi-mammate rat — the disease’s natural reservoir.
The NCDC, however, noted a decline in suspected cases compared to the same period in 2024. Encouragingly, it also reported that no new healthcare workers were affected in the latest epidemiological week (Week 14).
The agency continues to urge the public to maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with rodents, and seek immediate medical attention when symptoms occur.
