Nigeria Faces Lassa Fever Resurgence with 1,035 Cases

Nigeria is currently experiencing a resurgence of Lassa fever, affecting 23 states and 177 local government areas. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported 1,035 cases and 252 deaths between August 10 and 16, 2023, indicating a concerning fatality rate.

The states most impacted are Bauchi, Benue, Edo, Ondo, and Taraba, which together account for 87% of the cases. The disease is particularly prevalent among young adults aged 21 to 30, with experts uncertain about the reasons for this demographic concentration.

Lassa fever, endemic to West Africa, is transmitted through contact with infected rodents and bodily fluids. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, and in severe cases, respiratory distress and bleeding.

The incubation period ranges from 7 to 21 days, with serious illness occurring in about 20% of symptomatic cases. The disease first emerged in Nigeria in 1969, leading to the deaths of two missionary nurses in Borno State.