Lassa Fever Claims 99 Lives in Nigeria in Early 2026

As of the first eight weeks of 2026, Lassa fever has claimed 99 lives in Nigeria, surpassing the death toll from the same period in 2025. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported 1,989 suspected cases across 67 local government areas in 18 states.

Confirmed cases were primarily reported in Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo, and Benue states, with 84% of cases confirmed. Additionally, 10 health workers have been affected this year, raising the total to 28, which is higher than the previous year.

The NCDC has conducted press briefings and field missions to address the outbreak and improve data quality. They attribute the late presentation of cases to poor health-seeking behavior and environmental conditions.

A joint advisory from the NCDC and the Nigerian Medical Association urges healthcare professionals to maintain vigilance and adhere to infection prevention measures, especially during the dry season when Lassa fever transmission is heightened.