NCDC
Nigeria has recorded a significant rise in Lassa fever fatalities, with 155 deaths reported between January and July 20, 2025. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) disclosed this in its latest situation report for epidemiological week 29, noting that the current Case Fatality Rate (CFR) stands at 18.9%, surpassing the 17.1% recorded during the same period in 2024.
The outbreak has affected 21 states and 105 Local Government Areas, with five states accounting for 89% of all confirmed cases. These states include
– *Ondo State*: 32% of total cases
– *Bauchi State*: 23% of total cases
– *Edo State*: 17% of total cases
– *Taraba State*: 14% of total cases
– *Ebonyi State*: 3% of total cases
The NCDC reported 822 confirmed cases out of 6,640 suspected infections, with the 21-30 age group being the most affected and a median age of 30. The male-to-female ratio of confirmed cases stands at 1:0.8, indicating slightly higher male prevalence. No new infections among healthcare workers were recorded during the reporting week.
The agency has deployed Rapid Response Teams to 10 states and supported active case searches in health facilities and communities in affected areas. To curb hospital-acquired infections, the NCDC disseminated updated IPC guidelines and haemorrhagic fever protocols, supported by the Robert Koch Institute. Further training for healthcare workers took place in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue, alongside a regional clinical management session for ECOWAS countries.
The NCDC has urged state governments, partners, and the public to remain vigilant and prioritize preventive measures as the outbreak persists. The public is advised to maintain proper environmental sanitation, avoid contact with rodents, and report any symptoms early to the nearest health facility .
