The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has sounded the alarm following a significant surge in Lassa fever cases across 16 states within a single week.
According to the latest situation report released by the NCDC for week nine of 2024, a total of 109 new cases and 20 deaths have been confirmed, highlighting the escalating threat posed by the infectious disease.
This concerning development was disclosed by the NCDC on its website, underscoring the urgent need for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to stem the spread of the virus.
The report revealed a notable increase in confirmed cases from the previous week, rising from 96 to 109, with eight new healthcare workers affected during the reporting period.
Since the beginning of the year, Nigeria has witnessed a total of 682 confirmed cases and 128 deaths attributed to Lassa fever, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.8 percent, as indicated by the NCDC report.
The affected states encompass a wide geographic area, including Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Benue, Ebonyi, Kogi, Kaduna, Taraba, Enugu, Delta, Jigawa, Adamawa, Anambra, Rivers, Ogun, and Oyo.
Of particular concern is the concentration of cases in specific regions, with Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi accounting for 62 percent of all confirmed cases, while the remaining 38 percent are distributed across 24 states with confirmed cases.
This underscores the widespread nature of the outbreak and the need for comprehensive containment strategies to curb further transmission.
In response to the escalating crisis, the NCDC has activated the National Lassa Fever multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System.
This coordinated effort aims to enhance response measures at all levels, with the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) serving as the central hub for strategic interventions and coordination of resources.
As authorities mobilize resources to combat the outbreak, public awareness and community engagement play a crucial role in preventing further transmission. Citizens are urged to adhere to recommended hygiene practices, avoid contact with rodents, and seek prompt medical attention if experiencing symptoms associated with Lassa fever.
Amidst these efforts, the NCDC continues to closely monitor the situation and provide updates to ensure timely and effective response efforts.
The resurgence of Lassa fever underscores the persistent threat posed by infectious diseases and emphasizes the importance of collective action and cooperation to safeguard public health.
In the face of this public health challenge, authorities emphasize the need for sustained vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the outbreak and protect the well-being of all Nigerians.
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