The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 1,154 confirmed cases of Lassa fever out of 9,492 suspected cases nationwide, with 190 fatalities recorded so far in 2024.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, NCDC Director General Jide Idris revealed that the agency has activated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to tackle the outbreak. The latest risk assessment categorizes the situation as high, highlighting the severity of the ongoing crisis.
Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, is primarily transmitted by the multimammate rat, though other rodents can also act as carriers. The virus spreads through contact with contaminated food, water, surfaces, or the bodily fluids of infected individuals.
Idris noted that the disease remains endemic in Nigeria and poses a significant public health threat, particularly during the dry season from October to May, when human exposure to rodents peaks. Six states—Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Benue, and Ebonyi—account for 89% of confirmed cases.
“There has been an alarming increase in Lassa fever cases and deaths in the last four weeks, with a case fatality rate exceeding 13%,” he said. While enhanced surveillance has contributed to the rise in reported cases, the situation demands targeted interventions in high-burden areas.
In preparation for the outbreak season, the NCDC has distributed medical supplies, infection prevention materials, and laboratory tools nationwide. Testing laboratories have been expanded from nine to 13, with plans for further upgrades. Rodent control exercises are also underway in high-risk states like Edo, Ebonyi, Ondo, and Benue.
The agency advises the public to maintain clean environments, store food safely, avoid drying food on the ground or roadside, and discourage bush burning and deforestation. Healthcare workers are urged to practice infection prevention protocols and maintain vigilance in diagnosing febrile illnesses.
“By implementing proactive measures and adhering to public health advisories, we can reduce the impact of Lassa fever and protect communities nationwide,” Idris assured.
The NCDC reaffirmed its commitment to mitigating the outbreak through coordinated responses and collaboration with stakeholders.
