Lassa Fever Claims 155 Lives in Nigeria in Seven Months — NCDC

Nigeria has recorded 155 deaths and 822 confirmed cases of Lassa fever between January 1 and July 20, 2025, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).

The figure, released on Tuesday, represents an 18.9% Case Fatality Rate (CFR), which is higher than the 17.1% reported within the same period in 2024.

In its latest report covering epidemiological Week 29, the NCDC revealed that a total of 6,640 suspected cases were documented across 21 states and 105 Local Government Areas (LGAs). The number of new confirmed cases during the week remained unchanged from Week 27, with fresh infections reported in Ondo and Edo states.

Lassa fever is an acute viral illness caused by the Lassa virus. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the disease is endemic in several West African countries, including Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, and Sierra Leone. It is primarily spread through exposure to food or household items contaminated with urine or feces of infected rodents. Human-to-human transmission, especially in healthcare settings without proper infection control, is also possible.

The NCDC continues to urge the public to maintain high levels of hygiene and take preventive measures to avoid contact with rodents, particularly in high-risk areas. Health workers are also advised to follow standard infection prevention protocols to curb further transmission.

As the rainy season persists, experts warn of the potential for increased cases and emphasize the need for sustained surveillance and community sensitization.