Lassa Fever Kills 136, Across Nigeria, 717 Confirmed Infected

A recent outbreak of Lassa fever in Nigeria has resulted in 717 confirmed cases and 136 deaths, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).

The cases were reported between January and May 4, 2025, across 18 states and 93 local government areas.

The NCDC reported that the states with the highest number of deaths are Taraba (34), Ondo (27), and Edo (19).

Other states that have recorded deaths include Bauchi (15), Ebonyi (11), Kogi (4), Gombe (7), Plateau (5), Benue (5), Nasarawa (4), Kaduna (2), Enugu (1), Delta (2), Cross-River (1), and Ogun (1).

Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus, which is commonly found in West Africa.

The virus is transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated with the urine or feces of infected rodents, particularly the multimammate mouse.

The disease can also be spread from person to person through direct contact with an infected person’s blood, urine, or other bodily fluids.

The NCDC has urged Nigerians to take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease, including avoiding contact with rodents and their urine or feces, keeping homes clean, and seeking medical attention immediately if symptoms occur. The agency has also activated its emergency operations center to coordinate the response to the outbreak and provide support to affected states.

The public is advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of Lassa fever.

With prompt medical attention, the disease can be treated and fatalities can be prevented.