Abuja : The Lassa fever Nigeria death toll has reached 172 this year, public health authorities reported. The Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed 924 cases from 8,041 suspected cases between January and October, spanning 106 local government areas across 21 of the country’s 36 states.
The case fatality rate rose to 18.6%, up from 17% during the same period in 2024. Authorities cited “late presentation of cases and poor health-seeking behaviour” in high-burden communities as key factors behind the rising deaths.
The worst-hit states Edo, Ebonyi, Ondo in the south, and Bauchi and Taraba in the north account for over 90% of confirmed cases. Ondo alone represents 35% of infections. Most affected are young adults aged 21–30, with cases spread across different genders.
The NCDC warned that poor sanitation, lack of awareness, and delayed treatment fuel the outbreak. It urged citizens to keep their surroundings clean, avoid contact with rodents, and store food safely. Anyone with persistent fever, chest pain, sore throat, or vomiting should visit the nearest health facility immediately.
Health authorities activated a multi-sectoral incident management system and coordinated with state ministries, development partners, and community stakeholders to respond effectively and provide care for patients.
Lassa fever spreads mainly through food or household items contaminated with rodent urine or feces. People can also contract the virus through direct contact with the blood, saliva, urine, or excreta of infected individuals.
Public vigilance and timely treatment remain essential to curb the spread of this deadly virus.
–IANS
