The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed that 215 people died from Lassa fever in 2025, with the case fatality rate climbing to 18.7%, higher than the 16.3% recorded in 2024.
In its latest Lassa Fever Situation Report for Epidemiological Week 52 (December 22–28, 2025), the agency said Nigeria recorded 1,148 confirmed cases out of 9,389 suspected cases during the year.
The outbreak spread across 22 states and 107 Local Government Areas, underscoring the persistent threat of the viral haemorrhagic disease.
The NCDC noted that while the number of suspected and confirmed cases declined compared to 2024, the higher fatality rate remained a major concern.
“In week 52 alone, 27 new confirmed cases and nine deaths were reported across Bauchi, Ondo, Ebonyi, Taraba and Nasarawa states,” the agency stated.
The report highlighted that four states accounted for 89% of all confirmed cases nationwide: Ondo (35%), Bauchi (26%), Edo (16%) and Taraba (12%).
Young adults aged 21–30 years were the most affected, with cases ranging from one to 96 years and a median age of 30. The male-to-female ratio among confirmed cases stood at 1:0.8.
Why Fatalities Are Rising
The agency attributed the rising fatality rate to late presentation at health facilities, poor health-seeking behaviour, and the high cost of treatment in high-burden communities.
Poor sanitation and low awareness were also listed as factors fueling the spread of the disease.
To curb the outbreak, the NCDC said it had intensified efforts through a multi-sectoral approach.
This included deploying 10 National Rapid Response Teams to affected states, training healthcare workers, strengthening infection prevention and control (IPC) measures, and distributing Ribavirin, personal protective equipment (PPEs), and other response commodities.
Expanded risk communication and community engagement activities were also rolled out. The agency noted that no new healthcare worker infections were recorded in week 52, attributing this to improved IPC compliance in treatment centres.
The NCDC urged states to sustain year-round community engagement on prevention, especially as Nigeria enters a new outbreak season.
Healthcare workers were advised to maintain a high index of suspicion and ensure timely referral and treatment of suspected cases.
The agency also called on partners to continue strengthening state capacity to detect and respond promptly to outbreaks.
About Lassa Fever
Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness transmitted to humans mainly through contact with food or household items contaminated by urine or faeces of infected rodents.
Human-to-human transmission can also occur through contact with bodily fluids of infected persons.
Nigeria records cases throughout the year, though transmission peaks during the dry season. Symptoms range from fever, weakness and headache to vomiting, diarrhoea, bleeding, and organ complications in severe cases.
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment with antiviral medication significantly improve survival.
The NCDC advised the public to maintain good hygiene, store food properly, keep homes rodent-free, and seek early medical attention if symptoms develop.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment 💬, Share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
