The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a significant Lassa fever outbreak, with 3,465 suspected cases, 645 confirmed infections, and 118 deaths recorded between January and March 2025.
The outbreak has spread across 91 local government areas in 33 states, resulting in a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 18.3 percent. Dr. Jide Idris, Director-General of the NCDC, also disclosed that 20 healthcare workers have been infected across multiple states.
In response, the NCDC has deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to 10 affected states for intervention and extended deployments in Edo and Taraba due to the outbreak’s persistence. The Lassa Fever National Emergency Operations Centre (LF-EOC) has been activated at Response Level 2 to improve coordination among stakeholders.
The NCDC has also distributed medical supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and treatment medications, to the affected regions.
However, the agency has identified challenges such as weak community surveillance, inadequate resources, and manpower shortages in treatment centers. Many patients also delay seeking care, opting for self-medication and traditional practices.
Dr. Idris urged state governments to support Lassa fever treatment costs and called for private sector involvement in providing medical supplies and public awareness campaigns. He emphasized the need for collective action, including improved healthcare worker infection control and environmental hygiene practices to prevent rodent infestation.
The NCDC is calling for enhanced public awareness, early medical intervention, and stronger healthcare infrastructure to effectively combat the outbreak.
