NCDC’s latest weekly situation report shows Lassa fever has killed 253 people in Nigeria between January and August 23, with the case fatality rate climbing to 24%, up sharply from 18.7% recorded over the same period last year. Twenty-one new confirmed cases were reported in the most recent week alone, bringing cumulative infections for the year to 1,056, across 24 states and 118 local government areas.
The outbreak remains heavily concentrated: 87% of all confirmed cases came from just five states, Ondo (33%), Bauchi (25%), Taraba (13%), Edo (10%), and Benue (6%). The predominant age group affected is 21 to 30 years old, and NCDC reported no new healthcare worker infections in the latest reporting week, a small piece of good news given how often Lassa fever spreads through clinical exposure. A national multisectoral technical working group continues coordinating the response.
The rising fatality rate, not just rising case counts, is the number worth paying attention to here. A higher case fatality rate with a comparable or larger case count typically signals either later presentation to care, reduced treatment capacity, or both, worth watching closely as NCDC continues its weekly reporting through the rest of the year.
What You Can Do
- If you’re in Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, Edo, or Benue states, know these five account for the large majority of cases this year; seek care immediately for fever, weakness, or unexplained bleeding rather than waiting.
- Rodent control remains the primary prevention tool. Lassa fever spreads primarily through contact with infected rodent urine or droppings contaminating food and household surfaces.
This article is for general information on an active outbreak. If you suspect Lassa fever symptoms, seek care immediately at the nearest health facility.
The Health Factor Africa
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