The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has expressed concern over a rise in Lassa fever fatalities in 2025, despite overall case numbers being lower than in 2024.
In its Week 31 situation report (ending August 3), the agency recorded nine new cases in Ondo, Edo, and Taraba States, up from three the previous week, bringing the year’s total to 836 confirmed cases and 156 deaths. This puts the case fatality rate at 18.7%, compared to 17.3% during the same period last year.
So far in 2025, 6,851 suspected cases have been reported across 21 states and 105 local government areas. Ondo State accounts for 33% of all cases, followed by Bauchi (23%), Edo (17%), Taraba (14%), and Ebonyi (3%). Most infections are in people aged 21–30, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8.
The NCDC identified late presentation to health facilities, poor health-seeking behaviour due to treatment costs, and poor sanitation in high-burden areas as factors driving the rising death rate.
To curb the spread, the agency has deployed ten National Rapid Response Teams, distributed contact thermometers, launched an Infection Prevention and Control e-learning course, and trained healthcare workers in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue States. Public sensitisation is being intensified in hotspot LGAs, with anti-Lassa fever messages integrated into broader infection prevention campaigns.
The NCDC urged state governments to sustain community engagement year-round and called on healthcare workers to maintain a high index of suspicion. While overall case numbers are lower than last year, the agency warned that the rising fatality rate is a “clarion call” for urgent and sustained action.
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