No fewer than 138 Nigerians have lost their lives to Lassa fever between January and May 4, 2025, according to data released by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention.
The agency, in its latest situation report, said a total of 717 confirmed cases were recorded out of 4,881 suspected infections across 18 states and 93 Local Government Areas.
This reflects a case fatality rate of 19.3 per cent—higher than the 18 per cent recorded in the same period last year.
Ondo, Taraba, and Bauchi states remain the hardest hit, accounting for 71 per cent of all confirmed cases. Specifically, Ondo recorded 30 per cent of cases, Bauchi 25 per cent, and Taraba 16 per cent.
The NCDC identified the affected states with deaths as Ondo (27), Taraba (34), Edo (19), Bauchi (15), Ebonyi (11), Kogi (4), Gombe (7), Plateau (5), Benue (5), Nasarawa (4), Kaduna (2), Delta (2), Enugu (1), Cross River (1), and Ogun (1).
Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent excreta. The disease remains endemic in Nigeria, particularly during the dry season.
The NCDC report also highlighted that the predominant age group affected ranges from 21 to 30 years, with a median age of 30. The male-to-female ratio of confirmed cases stands at 1:0.8.
Although the overall number of new cases declined in Week 18—with 10 cases reported compared to 11 in the previous week—public health experts warn that the high fatality rate underscores the need for stronger surveillance and community-level prevention strategies.
“No new healthcare worker infection was reported during the review week,” the agency added.
To strengthen the response, the NCDC said the National Lassa Fever Multi-Partner, Multi-Sectoral Incident Management System remains activated, coordinating interventions across federal and state levels.
Healthcare professionals have urged Nigerians to maintain strict hygiene, avoid contact with rodents, and seek early medical attention when symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and bleeding are observed.
'
'
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
