Nigeria's Lassa Fever Cases Reach 1,035 with 252 Deaths

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported that Nigeria's Lassa fever outbreak has reached 1,035 confirmed cases and 252 deaths nationwide. Between August 10 and 16, 14 new confirmed cases were recorded, raising the cumulative case fatality rate (CFR) to 24.4%, an increase from 18.6% during the same period in 2025.

The latest infections were reported in Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, and Benue states, which are significantly affected by the disease. During a National Health Security Press Briefing on Lassa fever preparedness in Abuja, NCDC director-general Dr Jide Idris emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to combat the disease, stating that multiple sectors, including health, environment, agriculture, and local governments, must collaborate to prevent infections and reduce fatalities.

He also mentioned ongoing support for research, including genomic sequencing, to enhance understanding of outbreak patterns. The NCDC advised the public to maintain cleanliness at home, store food properly, wash hands regularly, and seek medical attention for symptoms like fever or body pain.