Lassa Fever Death Toll Rises to 109 in Nigeria

As of week 9 in 2026, the death toll from Lassa fever in Nigeria has increased to 109, up from 99 just seven days prior, marking a significant rise in fatalities. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported that Bauchi and Ondo states are the hardest hit, with 28 and 22 confirmed cases respectively.

A total of 18 states have recorded confirmed cases across 69 local government areas, with a case fatality rate of 23.2%, higher than the previous year's 18.7%. The NCDC noted that at least 37 health workers have been infected in the first nine weeks of 2026, with six new cases reported in the latest week.

The agency emphasized the need for states to enhance year-round community engagement to prevent Lassa fever and maintain high suspicion of the disease among healthcare workers. The NCDC also highlighted challenges such as late case presentations and poor health-seeking behavior due to high treatment costs and unsanitary conditions in high-burden areas.