The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 811 cases of Lassa fever and 152 deaths across the country so far in 2025.
According to its Week 28 Situation Report (covering 7th–13th July), 11 new cases were recorded in Ondo, Edo, and Benue States, with the overall Case Fatality Rate (CFR) now at 18.7%—an increase from 17.3% in the same period last year.
The NCDC revealed that 89% of confirmed infections came from just five states: Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi. In total, 21 states and 105 Local Government Areas have reported at least one confirmed case this year.
Environmental Campaign Underway
In response, the agency has launched an environmental awareness campaign in high-burden states. However, it expressed concern that late presentation at health facilities remains a major factor driving up fatality rates.
The NCDC also blamed poor health-seeking behaviour, driven by the high cost of treatment, as well as poor sanitation and low public awareness in the worst-hit communities.
Recognise the Symptoms
The agency urged Nigerians to report suspected cases involving symptoms such as fever, malaise, sore throat, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pain, chest pain, and hearing loss.
About Lassa Fever
The World Health Organization classifies Lassa fever as an acute viral illness, endemic in Nigeria and several West African countries. It is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or faeces. Person-to-person transmission is also possible, particularly in health facilities with poor infection control.