Lassa fever: Two health workers die, 15 infected

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has raised fresh concerns over the rising spread of Lassa fever among healthcare workers, confirming that two health personnel have died while 15 others have been infected in the latest outbreak across the country.

In an advisory issued on Monday, the agency described the trend as worrisome and extended sympathy to affected workers and their families.

According to the NCDC, surveillance data up to Epidemiological Week 7 showed confirmed infections among healthcare workers in several states, including Ondo State, Edo State, Bauchi State, Taraba State, Ebonyi State and Benue State — areas already known to carry a high burden of the disease.

The agency said investigations into each infection revealed gaps in infection prevention and control (IPC) practices within health facilities, as well as missed exposure risks in some departments.

These lapses, it noted, have led to poorly aligned safety strategies and, in some cases, fatal outcomes.

Nigeria is currently battling another wave of the zoonotic disease, which is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by urine or faeces of infected rodents.

The virus can also spread from person to person, especially in healthcare settings where protective measures are inadequate.

Lassa fever, an acute viral haemorrhagic illness, is endemic in several West African countries and remains a major public health concern.

Health authorities say recurring outbreaks have persisted in Nigeria since a major surge in 2016.

The NCDC urged health facilities to strengthen infection control protocols and ensure strict adherence to safety measures to protect frontline workers and prevent further transmission.

Public health experts warn that the rising infections among medical personnel highlight the urgent need for improved hospital safety standards and better protection for those responding to the outbreak.