The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has revealed that the nation experienced a concerning surge in Lassa fever cases throughout 2023.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that the development results in a total of 9,155 suspected cases, 1,270 confirmed cases, and a tragic toll of 227 deaths.
The Director-General of NCDC,Dr. Adetifa Ifedayo, conveyed this alarming information in a statement released on Thursday.
The recorded cases spanned across 28 states and 124 local government areas (LGAs).
Dr. Ifedayo emphasized, “Cumulatively, there were 9,155 suspected cases, 1,270 confirmed cases, and 227 deaths, with a Cases Fatality Rate (CFR) of 17.9 per cent reported for 2023 across 28 states and 124 LGAs.
The impact zones of Lassa fever have been expanding nationwide, posing a risk of international exposure.”
In response to the escalating crisis, Dr. Ifedayo announced the activation of the Lassa Fever Emergency Operations Centre to enhance the coordination of response efforts.
He stated, “The NCDC, through the National Lassa Fever Technical Working Group (LF-TWG), has activated the national multisectoral Emergency Operations Centre for Lassa Fever (LF-EOC).”
The decision to activate LF-EOC followed a comprehensive risk assessment conducted by subject matter experts from relevant Ministries, Departments, Agencies, stakeholders, and major partners.
Dr. Ifedayo highlighted, “The outcome of the risk assessment placed the country at ‘High Risk,’ indicating an increased threat of Lassa fever transmission and impact.
Factors contributing to this risk include a rising number of states reporting cases, a high case fatality rate in confirmed cases, low index of suspicion among healthcare workers, healthcare worker infections, deaths, and the ongoing attrition of essential healthcare services.”
The NCDC remains vigilant and committed to addressing the Lassa fever crisis, aiming to mitigate the impact and protect the health and well-being of the nation.
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