The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says Nigeria is experiencing a rising Lassa fever fatality rate, despite a decline in weekly confirmed cases.
In its Epidemiological Week 14 report for 2026, the agency disclosed that confirmed cases fell from 26 in the previous week to 22, while the case fatality rate surged to 24.8%, up from 18.8% during the same period in 2025.
Cumulatively, Nigeria has recorded 170 deaths from Lassa fever this year, highlighting ongoing challenges with early detection, timely treatment, and health-seeking behaviour.
The report showed that 22 states and 94 Local Government Areas reported confirmed cases, with Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo, and Benue accounting for about 84% of infections. Bauchi recorded the highest burden at 27%, followed by Ondo (22%), Taraba (18%), Edo (9%), and Benue. Other affected states include Plateau, Ebonyi, and Kogi.
The predominant age group affected is 21–30 years, with cases ranging from 1 to 90 years and a median age of 30. The male-to-female ratio is 1:0.9. Infections among healthcare workers were also reported, raising concerns about compliance with infection prevention protocols.
Despite ongoing surveillance and interventions, including infection prevention training, PPE distribution, active case searches, contact tracing, and community sensitisation campaigns, challenges persist. These include late case presentation, poor health-seeking behaviour, inadequate sanitation, and low public awareness.
The NCDC urged state governments to strengthen community engagement and healthcare workers to maintain vigilance. It stressed that sustained multi-sectoral collaboration is critical to reducing transmission, improving treatment outcomes, and lowering fatalities.
Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents.
