The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has recorded 1,018 cases of Lassa fever out of 8,411 suspected cases between January 1 and September 29, 2024.
The cases were reported across 28 states and 128 local government areas, with 172 fatalities, representing a case fatality rate of 16.9%.
According to the NCDC’s week 39 report, Lassa fever remains a significant public health concern, particularly in states like Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi, which account for 68% of the confirmed cases.
Ondo alone reported 28% of the cases, followed by Edo with 23% and Bauchi with 17%.
The World Health Organization (WHO) describes Lassa fever as an acute viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents, particularly Mastomys rats.
The virus can also spread through person-to-person contact, especially in healthcare settings lacking proper infection control measures.
The NCDC report highlighted an increase in the number of suspected cases compared to the same period in 2023.
However, no new healthcare workers were infected in the latest reporting week.
The Lassa fever response is being coordinated by a national multi-sectoral technical working group, ensuring that response activities are conducted at all levels.
The NCDC continues to work with partners to manage the outbreak and prevent further spread.
