Lassa fever spreads to 21 states, 106 LGAs as cases climb to 906, death toll hits 168

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a growing outbreak of Lassa fever, which has claimed 168 lives across 21 states and 106 local government areas so far in 2025.

According to the NCDC’s situation report for epidemiological week 38, Nigeria has recorded 4,543 suspected cases, out of which 906 were confirmed positive, representing a case fatality rate of 18.7 per cent — nearly double the national target of below 10 per cent.

The agency identified Ondo, Edo, Taraba, and Bauchi States as the epicentres of the outbreak, accounting for 67 per cent of all confirmed cases. Ondo State recorded the highest number of infections, followed by Edo and Bauchi.

Other affected states include Ebonyi, Benue, Kogi, Gombe, Plateau, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Enugu, Delta, Anambra, Rivers, Borno, Oyo, Ogun, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Lagos.

The report shows that most confirmed cases were among people aged 21 to 40 years, a group the NCDC described as the most socially and economically active — and therefore more exposed to environments that attract rodents, the main carriers of the disease.

Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by the urine or faeces of infected rats.

It can also spread through human-to-human transmission, particularly in healthcare settings without adequate infection prevention controls.

While the disease typically peaks during the dry season (December to April), the NCDC noted that infections have continued throughout the year, making it a persistent public health challenge.

Some states, such as Taraba and Bauchi, have reported fatality rates above the national average, raising concerns about the accessibility and speed of treatment.

The NCDC reiterated that early presentation at treatment centres significantly improves survival chances, as ribavirin, the recommended antiviral drug, is most effective when administered promptly.

To contain the outbreak, the agency said it is strengthening surveillance systems, expanding diagnostic capacity, and supporting treatment centres in high-burden states.

It also continues to lead community sensitisation campaigns promoting preventive measures such as safe food storage, environmental hygiene, and rodent control.

The NCDC called for greater cooperation among state governments, communities, and healthcare workers to curb further spread.

Citizens were urged to store food securely, dispose of waste properly, and avoid self-medication when symptoms appear.

Despite progress in detection and response, the agency warned that Nigeria must remain on high alert.

“Without stronger community awareness and sustained control measures, Lassa fever will continue to pose a serious health threat,” the report concluded.