The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 747 cases of Lassa fever and 142 related deaths in 18 states.
The figures were revealed in the agency’s latest Lassa Fever Situation Report, which noted a case fatality rate (CFR) of 19.0%, slightly higher than the same period in 2024.
According to the report, new infections continue to emerge, with Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, and Nasarawa states reporting fresh cases last week.
It said a staggering 91% of all confirmed infections are concentrated in five states: Ondo (31%), Bauchi (25%), Edo (16%), Taraba (16%), and Ebonyi (3%).
The majority of those affected are young adults aged 21 to 30 years, with a median age of 30, and a near-even male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8.
Despite a decline in overall case numbers compared to 2024, the NCDC says it is intensifying response efforts nationwide.
“We remain vigilant and continue to coordinate response activities through our national multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System (IMS),” the agency said.
To stop the spread, 10 National Rapid Response Teams have been deployed to high-burden states.
The NCDC has also distributed medical supplies including Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), Ribavirin, and body bags to treatment centers.
“We’ve supported state IPC structures and treatment centres to reduce hospital-acquired infections in high-burden areas,” the report noted.
The NCDC has warned Nigerians, especially those in high-risk regions, to remain alert and take preventive measures such as avoiding contact with rodents and observing proper hygiene.
“We continue to enhance surveillance, contact tracing, and active case finding, while sustaining community awareness on Lassa fever prevention,” the agency said.
