Lassa Fever Claims 17 Lives in Nigeria Across Eight States in Three Weeks

Lassa fever has resulted in the deaths of 17 individuals in Nigeria, spanning eight states in just three weeks. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) released its weekly epidemiological report, revealing new confirmed cases in Bauchi, Taraba, Plateau, Ondo, Edo, Ebonyi, Benue, and Nasarawa.

Bauchi accounted for 46% of the total infections reported nationwide. The NCDC recorded a total of 93 confirmed cases of Lassa fever, with a current fatality rate of 18.1%, slightly lower than the 18.2% recorded in the same period in 2025.

Notably, four health workers were infected during this period, highlighting the occupational risks associated with the outbreak. The age group most affected was 21-30 years, with a median age of 27.5 years, and a male-to-female ratio of 1.06 among confirmed cases.

The NCDC stressed the importance of intensifying community engagement, advising healthcare workers to maintain a high index of suspicion for early detection and treatment.