The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a decline in confirmed Lassa fever cases in Epidemiological Week 3 of 2025. However, fatalities remain a concern, with 39 deaths recorded so far this year.
The NCDC disclosed this in its latest Lassa Fever Situation Report, published on Sunday via its official website.
According to the report, confirmed cases fell from 89 in Week 2 to 71 in Week 3, with infections reported in Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Plateau, Ebonyi, Gombe, Nasarawa, Delta, and Kogi States.
Despite the weekly decline, cumulative confirmed cases for 2025 have risen to 214, with an 18.2% Case Fatality Ratio (CFR)—a slight decrease from 20.4% recorded during the same period in 2024.
The NCDC noted that 77% of cases originated from three states: Ondo (38%), Edo (22%), and Bauchi (17%)
The most affected age group was 21-30 years, with cases ranging from ages 3 to 94.
Encouragingly, no new healthcare worker infections were reported this week.
So far in 2025, 10 states and 43 Local Government Areas (LGAs) have recorded at least one confirmed case—fewer than the 17 states and 54 LGAs affected in 2024.
To curb the outbreak, the NCDC has activated a multi-sectoral Incident Management System and deployed National Rapid Response Teams to affected areas.
Key interventions include: Enhanced surveillance and contact tracing, with 109 contacts under follow-up, Training of healthcare workers on case management in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue, with plans for Plateau and Taraba, Distribution of medical supplies, including PPEs, Ribavirin, body bags, and sanitizers to treatment centers, and Community sensitization campaigns in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Edo States.
The agency, in collaboration with partners, pledged to strengthen early detection, case management, and risk communication nationwide.
Public health experts emphasize that increased awareness and improved healthcare preparedness are crucial in reducing Nigeria’s Lassa fever burden.
Authorities have urged Nigerians to adopt preventive measures, including: Proper food storage to prevent rodent infestation, and Good hygiene practices and prompt medical attention at designated treatment centers if symptoms arise.
Lassa fever is endemic in Nigeria, with outbreaks occurring almost yearly. First identified in 1969 in Lassa, Borno State, the disease is transmitted primarily through contact with rodent urine or droppings.
Symptoms range from mild fever and joint pain to severe bleeding from the nose, mouth, and gastrointestinal tract. The disease is fatal in about 20% of cases, particularly when treatment is delayed.
Across West Africa, hundreds of thousands are infected annually, with severe cases involving fever, vomiting, and internal bleeding. One of the most troubling complications is hearing loss, which affects about 25% of survivors.
The estimated fatality rate is 1%, but during outbreaks, mortality can rise significantly, particularly among pregnant women and healthcare workers.
Despite its impact, Lassa fever remains one of the most neglected diseases, with limited resources allocated to its prevention and treatment. Currently, no licensed vaccine exists, though about 20 vaccine candidates are in development, with the most advanced in Phase IIa clinical trials.
