NCDC Reports 15 Health Workers Infected with Lassa Fever

The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed that 15 health workers have contracted Lassa fever amid the peak transmission season, with two deaths recorded during epidemiological week seven. Dr.

Jide Idri, the Director-General of NCDC, issued an advisory on Monday in Abuja, highlighting the urgent need for strict compliance with infection prevention and control (IPC) measures. He warned that these measures are essential to defend against hospital-based transmission of the virus.

The NCDC noted a persistent gap in clinical vigilance and infection control practices within health facilities, stressing that strict adherence to IPC practices and early detection are crucial for coordinating state-level actions to save lives and prevent further transmission. The affected states include Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Ebonyi, and Benue, with several local government areas identified as hotspots for the outbreak.

The loss of medical personnel due to the outbreak is a significant concern for the agency.